US News, 21 Nov 2025 (BNN Web)
In a significant legal setback for the Trump administration, a federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., a move that was made under the pretext of curbing crime in the city.
Judge Issues Temporary Injunction
The ruling, delivered by Judge Zia Cobb—a appointee of former President Biden—on Thursday, represents a temporary legal blow to Trump’s efforts to send troops into American cities despite objections from local leaders.
Judge Cobb ruled that the deployment violated the autonomy of local officials and was legally unjustified. However, she stayed her order until December 11 to allow the administration time to appeal.
Legal Battle Over Authority and Precedent
This legal fight is one of many playing out across the country.
- District’s Argument: District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb said in a statement that allowing Trump to use troops for domestic law enforcement would “set a dangerous precedent.”
- White House’s Response: White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated that Trump had acted legally and called the lawsuit an attempt to undermine their “successful efforts to curb violent crime.”
Background of the Lawsuit
According to Reuters, the elected Democrat Schwalb filed the lawsuit on September 4, following Trump’s announcement of the deployment on August 11. The suit accused Trump of unlawfully seizing control of the city’s law enforcement officers and violating a law that prohibits military troops from performing domestic police duties.
While Trump holds unique law enforcement powers in Washington, D.C., which is not part of any state, local officials argue he overstepped by nullifying the mayor’s policing authority and violating legal restrictions on federal troops acting as civilian police.
Administration’s Defense
Lawyers for the Trump administration have described the lawsuit in court documents as a “political stunt,” arguing that the president is free to deploy troops in Washington without the approval of local leaders. The administration has also stated that the troops are operating legally and have successfully reduced crime.
