Missouri Governor Authorizes National Guard Support for ICE
On Tuesday, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe (R) permitted state security forces to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This decision comes in light of a request from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to the Department of War (DOW).
Kehoe stated that soldiers will engage in “administrative and logistical obligations.” He emphasized that “public safety and supporting the rule of law are our top priorities.”
In his remarks, Kehoe noted the Missouri State Guard’s unique capability to fulfill this administrative role and expressed confidence that their support would enhance immigration enforcement efforts. He mentioned his pride in Missouri’s participation in the ongoing efforts to maintain safety at a national level.
In July, the Secretary of Defense modified the duty status of military personnel to allow National Guard members to assist ICE officials, ensuring seamless operation during these tasks.
Recent reports from Pentagon officials confirmed that the Trump administration plans to dispatch 100 troops to Illinois. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker (D) criticized the move, claiming that ICE is targeting individuals based on their race in popular tourist areas.
Additionally, the president has ordered the deployment of National Guard troops to Memphis, Tennessee, and Portland, Oregon, which has provoked backlash from Democratic leaders and Hispanic communities nationwide.
One organization, Unidosus, voiced concern, stating, “The military’s role is not to patrol our neighborhoods but to protect our country.” They also highlighted growing fears in communities already struggling with cuts in healthcare and food assistance.
The group cautioned that blending immigration enforcement with military involvement in law enforcement undermines democratic principles and places everyone at risk.
At last month’s Unidosus annual conference in Kansas City, statistics revealed that minorities contributed over $3.7 trillion to the economy in 2022, underscoring the significant impact of the Hispanic community in the United States. Notably, eight out of ten Latinos in the U.S. are American citizens.
