Minneapolis, Minnesota: President Donald Trump today, January 15, 2026, threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minneapolis, signalling a potential deployment of federal troops to quell persistent protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the city. The threat comes amidst heightened tensions following a fatal shooting by an ICE agent last week and another incident on Wednesday, where an ICE officer shot a Venezuelan national in the leg after allegedly being attacked. Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has publicly called for an end to what he described as an "occupation" by federal agents, urging Minnesotans to document ICE activities.

The Insurrection Act: A Presidential Prerogative

The Insurrection Act, a federal law dating back to 1807, grants the U.S. President the authority to deploy military forces, including federalizing National Guard units, within the United States to suppress insurrections, quell domestic violence, or enforce federal laws when obstructed. This act serves as a critical exception to the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, which generally prohibits the use of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement purposes. The law allows for military personnel to engage directly in civilian law enforcement actions, such as making arrests and performing searches, under specific circumstances. Its invocation can occur either at the request of a state's legislature or governor, or, under certain conditions, even against a state's wishes if federal laws are being obstructed or constitutional rights are being deprived and state authorities are unable or unwilling to act.

Trump Threatens to Invoke Insurrection Act in Minnesota

 

Historical Context and Recent Considerations

Historically, the Insurrection Act has been invoked sparingly. Notable instances include its use during the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Movement, such as when Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy deployed troops to desegregate schools in the South. More recently, the act has been a subject of intense debate and presidential consideration. Former President Trump previously threatened to invoke it in 2020 in response to nationwide protests following the murder of George Floyd, though federal officials ultimately dissuaded him. In 2025, he again floated the possibility of using the act in connection with anti-deportation protests in Los Angeles and to deploy National Guard troops to cities like Portland and Chicago, often facing legal challenges and strong opposition from state governors. These past considerations underscore the contentious nature of the act and the significant executive power it bestows.

Legal Scrutiny and Calls for Reform

The broad authority granted by the Insurrection Act has long drawn scrutiny from legal experts and civil liberties advocates. Critics argue that the law is outdated, having not been substantively amended since the 1870s, and is "ripe for abuse" due to its vague language and the lack of robust checks and balances on presidential power. Concerns persist that the act could be used to undermine democratic institutions and individual rights. There have been bipartisan calls for comprehensive reforms to the Insurrection Act, proposing measures such as narrowing the criteria for deployment, specifying authorized military actions, and introducing congressional and judicial oversight to prevent potential overreach. These proposed reforms aim to modernize the law and ensure it aligns with contemporary constitutional principles and the balance of power.

The current threat to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minneapolis underscores the ongoing relevance and contentious nature of this powerful executive tool. As protests continue and federal-state tensions rise, the potential deployment of military forces for domestic law enforcement purposes remains a significant point of concern, highlighting the urgent need for clarity and potential reform of this centuries-old legislation.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 15, 2026 07:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).