Story perspectives

Senate Questions Trump's National Guard Deployment Amid Controversy

12/11/2025

Center

Senate Questions Trump

The Senate Armed Services Committee will question U.S. President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops in U.S. cities.
The hearing is unprecedented and follows a federal court ruling against deploying California National Guard troops without state approval.
The White House plans to appeal.
The shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., left one dead.

Right

Senate Examines Guard

The Senate Armed Services Committee is holding a hearing today to scrutinize National Guard deployment across the United States.
Key witnesses include Joseph M. Humire, acting assistant secretary of defense, and Gen. Gregory M. Guillot, commander of United States Northern Command.
The hearing follows legal disputes over legality and implications for military readiness.
Lawmakers will examine the balance of state and federal authority in military actions.

History

Historical Context

The National Guard Act of 1903, also known as the Dick Act, established a federal framework for state militias, allowing the government to mobilize National Guard troops. This legislation was crucial during World War I, impacting 54,000 members. Current Senate hearings reflect ongoing debates over state versus federal authority, especially following a court ruling against troop deployment in California, potentially reshaping military readiness.

1 of 3

Senate Questions Trump

The Senate Armed Services Committee will question U.S. President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops in U.S. cities.
The hearing is unprecedented and follows a federal court ruling against deploying California National Guard troops without state approval.
The White House plans to appeal.
The shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., left one dead.

1 / 3