President Donald Trump made a bold move on Monday evening when he threatened to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act. Trump made the announcement during a surprise address at the White House as protesters congregated outside of the north lawn.
“If a city or state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents, then I will deploy the United States military and quickly solve the problem for them,” the former reality show host stated.
The act which was last used during the Rodney King riots of 1992 allows “the President to employ the armed forces during a natural disaster or terrorist attack.” Before invoking the act, the President “must first issue a proclamation ordering the insurgents to disperse within a limited time.” Furthermore, the act indicates that the President should get the approval of state leaders before doing so. With that being said, there is a loophole that allows the New York native to deploy troops at his command.
My fellow Americans – My first and highest duty as President is to defend our great Country and the American People. I swore an oath to uphold the laws of our Nation — and that is exactly what I will do… pic.twitter.com/pvFxxi9BTR
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2020
“Whenever the President considers that unlawful obstructions, combinations, or assemblages, or rebellion against the authority of the United States, make it impracticable to enforce the laws of the United States in any State by the ordinary course of judicial proceedings, he may call into Federal service such of the militia of any State, and use such of the armed forces, as he considers necessary to enforce those laws or to suppress the rebellion,” the act states.
Trump made this announcement as the country enters its eighth day of unrest following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Protests have erupted across the country including in the nation’s capital. Shortly before giving his remarks, military grade vehicles were spotted across downtown Washington, D.C. Furthermore, authorities tear gassed peaceful demonstrators shortly after Trump delivered his remarks.
As the nation enters its ninth day of unrest, it appears that there will be no slowing down.
