Trump Troop Deployment Surges to 35,000 Boots on the Ground
The Trump administration has deployed approximately 35,000 federal troops within the United States this year, marking a significant increase in occupation forces operating under Title 10 authority. According to exclusive figures provided to The Intercept by official military sources, this number represents a 75 percent surge since July.
These troops are drawn from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and National Guard, and have been deployed in at least five states: Arizona, California, Florida, New Mexico, and Texas. They are primarily operating along the US-Mexico border in support of the Trump administration's anti-immigrant agenda.
The deployment has sparked concerns about civil liberties and the role of the military within domestic affairs. "This is a clear overreach of executive authority," said Sarah Knuckey, a human rights lawyer at Columbia Law School. "The use of Title 10 troops for domestic purposes sets a dangerous precedent."
According to The Intercept, these occupation forces are operating under federal control, with Northern Command responsible for overseeing their deployment. However, the true extent of troop deployments may be higher due to the lack of a running tally and the Department of War's refusal to disclose basic information about the forces.
The deployment has been met with criticism from lawmakers and civil liberties groups. "This is an abuse of power by the Trump administration," said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). "We need to hold them accountable for their actions."
Background on Operation Lone Star
Operation Lone Star, launched in March 2022, aims to address border security concerns and combat human trafficking. However, critics argue that the operation is primarily focused on enforcing immigration policies.
The deployment of federal troops has been a contentious issue, with some arguing that it undermines state authority and others claiming that it is necessary for national security. "This is not about immigration; this is about the Trump administration's desire to exert control over our borders," said Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN).
Current Status
The deployment of 35,000 troops marks a significant escalation in federal involvement in domestic affairs. As the situation continues to unfold, concerns about civil liberties and executive authority remain at the forefront.
Sources:
The Intercept: "Trump Troop Deployment in U.S. Climbs to 35,000 Boots on the Ground"
The Intercept: "Trump's Title 10 Troop Deployment Surpasses 35,000 Boots on the Ground"
This story was compiled from reports by The Intercept and The Intercept.
