A former high-ranking military leader has criticized the president’s deployment of the National Guard and active-duty troops to American cities, arguing it undermines military readiness and risks constitutional freedoms. The leader, who served over 35 years in both the regular Army and National Guard, expressed deep concerns over recent actions that brought the U.S. closer to the model of other countries where military plays a role in domestic governance.
The deployment of troops to Los Angeles, along with the use of active-duty Marines in Washington, D.C., has raised serious legal and ethical concerns, with the leader warning of potential consequences for both the military and civilian population. The leader highlighted the fundamental importance of maintaining a clear separation between the military and civilian authorities, emphasizing the Posse Comitatus Act that limits military’s involvement in domestic law enforcement.
The leader also pointed out the risk of diverting military resources from critical defense priorities, as National Guard units are traditionally deployed for natural disasters and other humanitarian efforts, not for immigration enforcement or protests. Furthermore, the leader argued that such actions could lead to significant financial costs and logistical challenges, as evidenced by the Pentagon’s estimate of a $134 million expenditure for the deployment.
In addition to the logistical concerns, the leader criticized the potential misuse of presidential power to suppress political dissent and intimidate Americans, stating that the president’s actions are wrong and must come to an end. The leader’s family, which includes military service members from different generations, supported the stance that constitutional rights such as free speech and due process must be protected.