As tensions rise in Minneapolis following a controversial immigration enforcement incident, the U.S. Army may deploy additional soldiers to the region. A defense official, speaking anonymously, disclosed that troops from Fort Bragg in North Carolina have received orders to be ready for potential deployment.
These troops, part of an Army military police brigade, would provide assistance to local authorities in Minneapolis if called upon. However, the defense source emphasized that such orders are common and do not guarantee deployment. The potential action comes amid widespread protests after a federal immigration officer fatally shot Renee Good in Minneapolis on January 7, sparking public outcry.
Additionally, about 1,500 soldiers from the Army’s 11th Airborne Division based in Alaska have been placed on standby. President Donald Trump has considered invoking the Insurrection Act, a seldom-used law from the 19th century, to deploy active-duty troops for law enforcement purposes. However, he later remarked to reporters that the act was not necessary “right now.” Trump stated, “If I needed it, I’d use it. It’s very powerful.”
Despite the uproar, the Pentagon has yet to provide further details about these orders, initially reported by MS Now. Meanwhile, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has urged President Trump to avoid sending more troops, inviting him to visit Minnesota to “help restore calm and order and reaffirm that true public safety comes from shared purpose, trust, and respect,” as mentioned in a statement on Tuesday.
Throughout his second term, President Trump has often extended military involvement in domestic affairs, frequently against the preferences of local leaders. This approach has been evident in federal operations targeting illegal immigration and crime. Last June, Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles following immigration-related protests, sending 4,000 Guard members and 700 active-duty Marines to secure federal buildings and support federal agents in their operations.
Similar actions have been taken in cities like Chicago and Portland, Oregon, though not without legal challenges. In December, President Trump announced he would temporarily halt these efforts, as reported in previous statements.
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