Federal judge blocks Trump’s National Guard deployments as protests flare and shutdown drags on

President Donald Trump’s plan to deploy National Guard troops to multiple U.S. cities is facing mounting legal and political pushback.

(NBC)- President Donald Trump’s plan to deploy National Guard troops to multiple U.S. cities is facing mounting legal and political pushback.

Overnight in Portland, Oregon, a federal judge blocked the administration’s attempt to send National Guard troops from California — or any other state — into the city, where protests continue. California Governor Gavin Newsom praised the decision, writing, “Trump’s abuse of power won’t stand.”

The ruling follows another court order halting the deployment of 200 Oregon National Guard soldiers to Portland. Responding to the decision, Trump said, “I appointed the judge, and he goes like that, so I wasn’t served well. Portland is burning to the ground.”

Portland police, however, report that demonstrations are contained to a single block.

In Chicago, the Trump administration has moved ahead with the deployment of 300 National Guard troops, despite objections from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who accused the White House of trying to “create a war zone.” Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the move, saying residents deserve protection from escalating violence.

Federal officials cite a recent attack on ICE officers in Chicago — where a black SUV rammed a truck carrying agents — as justification for increased troop presence.

Meanwhile, the federal government shutdown has stretched into its sixth day, with no resolution in sight. Trump warned of looming federal layoffs, calling them “Democrat layoffs,” while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Democrats have been trying to negotiate for weeks.

Thousands of federal employees — including military service members — are now working without pay as negotiations remain stalled.