August 12, 2025policy changeCivil LibertiesMilitary PolicyFirst Amendmentcivil libertiesmilitaryexecutive power
Pentagon Plans 600-Troop Force to Deploy Against US Protesters
The Pentagon announced plans to create a 600-troop Quick Reaction Force specifically designated for deployment against domestic protesters in the United States. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the unit, which would operate under presidential command without requiring a congressional declaration. Legal scholars immediately raised concerns about the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military use for domestic law enforcement.