Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson Urges President Trump to Cease National Guard Deployments in American Cities
Seattle, WA – Attorney General Bob Ferguson of Washington State has formally called upon President Donald Trump to immediately cease what he describes as “illegal” deployments of the National Guard in American cities. The statement, released by the Attorney General’s office on September 4, 2025, at 7:29 PM, expresses significant legal and constitutional concerns regarding the deployment of federalized National Guard units into domestic law enforcement roles without explicit state consent.
Attorney General Ferguson’s core argument centers on the principle that the National Guard, while a vital resource, operates under a dual command structure. In their state capacity, Guard units are under the authority of their respective governors. However, when federalized, they fall under the command of the President. Ferguson contends that the President’s directive to deploy National Guard troops into cities to quell protests, particularly when it involves direct law enforcement actions without the clear invitation and consent of the affected state government, oversteps constitutional boundaries and undermines state sovereignty.
The Attorney General’s office has emphasized that the use of federalized National Guard forces for domestic law enforcement is a sensitive issue with profound implications for civil liberties and the balance of power between federal and state governments. Ferguson has pointed to historical precedents and legal interpretations that suggest such actions require careful consideration and adherence to established legal frameworks, particularly concerning the Posse Comitatus Act, which generally prohibits the use of the military for domestic law enforcement purposes.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by cities dealing with unrest, Attorney General Ferguson has stressed the importance of respecting established legal processes and the authority of state and local officials. He argues that deploying federalized National Guard troops in a manner that bypasses or conflicts with the decisions of state governors can lead to confusion, potential legal challenges, and an erosion of trust in both federal and state institutions.
The Attorney General’s statement serves as a strong legal and constitutional objection to the unilateral federalization and deployment of National Guard forces for domestic law enforcement. It underscores Washington State’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles and ensuring that the deployment of military-style forces in civilian spaces is conducted with proper legal authority and respect for state autonomy. The call to President Trump highlights a broader national debate about the appropriate role of federal power in responding to domestic civil unrest and the delicate balance between maintaining order and protecting fundamental rights.
AG Brown calls on Trump to end illegal National Guard deployments in American cities
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