Stop Trump’s Plan To Militarize Our Cities

I am writing to urge you to oppose President Trump’s stated plan to use U.S. cities as “training grounds” for the military. This proposal is more than alarming rhetoric. It represents a direct threat to constitutional protections, civil liberties, and the principle of civilian control over the armed forces. Speak Out Against Militarization The notion that our cities can double as training fields for federal troops dangerously blurs the line between military readiness and domestic policing. Once troops are stationed in civilian spaces, the distinction between “training” and “law enforcement” can quickly vanish. The presence of armed soldiers in neighborhoods would intimidate citizens, suppress free speech, and chill democratic activity. Congress must make clear that the armed forces have no role patrolling our streets. Hold Oversight Hearings Congress must immediately convene oversight hearings. Pentagon and Justice Department officials should be required to explain what legal authority permits these activities, what the rules of engagement would be, and how they intend to prevent violations of civil rights. Without transparency and accountability, the public will be left vulnerable to executive overreach. Pass Explicit Prohibitions The Posse Comitatus Act already restricts domestic use of the military, but the administration appears determined to find loopholes. Congress must pass legislation barring any training or deployment of active-duty forces in U.S. cities unless specifically authorized by statute, under narrow and defined circumstances. These laws must include safeguards such as reporting, judicial review, and penalties for violations. Safeguard Local Authority Mayors and governors are best positioned to decide what resources their communities need. Turning cities into federally controlled training zones strips away local autonomy and sets a precedent for political targeting of urban areas. Congress should reaffirm the primacy of local authority in matters of public safety. Our cities belong to the people who live in them, not to the federal military. I urge you to speak out publicly, convene hearings, and introduce strong legislation to prevent this unprecedented and unconstitutional use of our armed forces.