Trump deployment of Marine Corps, National Guard against Californians affirms U.S. now under authoritarian rule

The president of the United States has deployed the military against Californians in a divisive, unjustified, and unprecedented action. He has also threatened the use of “heavy force” against Americans who protest a military parade in Washington, D.C., on June 14th–the President’s birthday—and encouraged his subordinates to arrest political opponents, most recently the sitting governor of California, Gavin Newsom. These actions—taking place over the course of a mere few days—underscore the administration’s pattern of fabricating emergencies–whether regarding energy, immigration, trade, or other domains–as a pretext to seize and abuse power, defy the rule of law, and repress dissent.

These actions have caused grave fear and anxiety in Los Angeles—a city still reeling from devastating wildfires—and in people around the country. These actions disrespect the service of the brave men and women who serve in the U.S. armed forces with distinction, honor, and a love of country and of the people who call it home. And these are the hallmarks of a mad king abusing military and political power to attack the pillars of the United States’ nearly 250-year-old democracy.

Let us remember: Our constitutional order grew out of a revolutionary war sparked in no small part by British soldiers firing on and killing colonists in the Boston Massacre of 1770. We thus urge political and military leaders to remember their oaths and take action to restrain this abuse of military force. Marines and other service members called to Los Angeles who can not morally take up arms against American citizens can apply for conscientious objector status. The G.I. Rights Hotline at 1-877-447-4487 is available to provide guidance.

We also urge protesters to remain peaceful but vigilant. Exercising our constitutional right to protest the administration’s transgressions is fundamental to our democracy, and we as a nation must not stand idly by while the president recklessly assaults this right. But remember: The world is watching.

President Trump expects institutions and the people to wither. In this moment, which transcends partisan lines, we urge all people of good faith to stand tall against the administration’s transgressive and authoritarian actions.