In recent weeks, the Trump administration deployed federalized National Guard units and active-duty military forces to several cities, including Los Angeles and Chicago, despite objections from local and state officials. These deployments have been met with widespread public outcry and judicial intervention. Further, elected leaders in these states have described the actions as unconstitutional, coercive, and dangerous to democratic governance.

For this reason, I plan to introduce a resolution that condemns the deployment of federal troops and National Guard forces into cities without the consent of state or local authorities, and this resolution will particularly oppose these actions in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania maintains its own National Guard that is under the control of the Governor, and this authority must not be unconstitutionally usurped by the federal executive branch. Additionally, using force against civilians engaged in protest or civic expression is a grave threat to the United States’s vital principles of free speech, free assembly, and civilian control of government. Thus, this resolution will preserve Pennsylvanians’ rights and protect them from unlawful federal intrusion.

Therefore, please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation and defending the Commonwealth.