Story perspectives

Appeals Court Allows Trump's National Guard Troops in D.C.

12/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

A federal appeals court in Washington ruled on December 17, 2025, that National Guard troops deployed by U.S. President Donald Trump could remain in Washington while the court reviews their legality.
The decision underpins Trump's drive to deploy troops in a Democratic-led city, despite deployments being halted by federal judges.
The three-judge panel indicated the Trump administration is likely to prevail due to the District of Columbia's unique legal status.

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Story summary

A federal appeals court in Washington ruled on December 17, 2025, that National Guard troops deployed by U.S. President Donald Trump could remain in Washington while the court reviews their legality.
The decision underpins Trump's drive to deploy troops in a Democratic-led city, despite deployments being halted by federal judges.
The three-judge panel indicated the Trump administration is likely to prevail due to the District of Columbia's unique legal status.