A Tennessee judge has blocked President Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Memphis as part of a crime-fighting operation. Chancellor Patricia Head Moskal ruled that Democratic state and local officials were likely to succeed in their lawsuit, which argued that Republican Gov.
Bill Lee cannot deploy the Guard for civil unrest without a rebellion or invasion and legislative action, or a specific request from local government. The judge found that the governor's power as commander-in-chief is not unlimited and that the deployment likely violates the state's military code, causing irreparable harm.
However, Moskal has placed her injunction on hold for five days to allow the government to file an appeal. The National Guard has been present in Memphis since October 10th, patrolling neighborhoods and commercial areas as part of a task force established by President Trump.
The Guard members, who do not have arrest powers, are working alongside federal and local law enforcement agencies. While Memphis has a history of violence, officials note improvements in some crime statistics this year, though violence remains a concern.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young stated he did not request the Guard's deployment. Governor Lee has maintained that Tennessee law grants him the authority to dispatch the Guard when he deems it necessary.
The state argues that the mission is a strategic one that enhances public safety.
