1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

Restrict Domestic Deployment of U.S. Military Forces Date: December 3, 2024 Recent reports indicate that President-elect Donald Trump and his advisors are formulating plans to deploy active-duty U.S. military and federalized National Guard personnel domestically for purposes such as immigration enforcement and addressing civil unrest. These proposals include stationing troops at the U.S.-Mexico border and utilizing military forces for mass deportations and domestic law enforcement activities. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) have expressed concerns regarding these potential actions. In a letter dated November 26, 2024, they urged the current administration to implement policies that would restrict the domestic deployment of military forces unless explicitly requested by state or local authorities or in extreme cases of unrest. Concerns: • Erosion of Civil Liberties: The use of military forces in domestic affairs risks undermining civil liberties and could lead to the suppression of lawful dissent. • Violation of Established Norms: Such actions may contravene the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits the use of federal military personnel for domestic law enforcement. • Precedent for Future Misuse: Allowing military involvement in domestic matters sets a dangerous precedent that could be exploited by future administrations. Petition: We, the undersigned citizens of the United States, respectfully request that the current administration take the following actions: 1. Issue a Policy Directive: Establish clear guidelines that prohibit the domestic deployment of active-duty military and federalized National Guard personnel without explicit requests from state or local authorities or in cases of extreme and unmanageable unrest. 2. Reaffirm Commitment to Civil Liberties: Publicly reaffirm the administration’s dedication to upholding civil liberties and the principles enshrined in the Constitution, ensuring that military forces are not used to suppress lawful activities. 3. Consult with Congress: Engage in thorough consultations with Congress before any domestic deployment of military forces, ensuring transparency and adherence to democratic processes.