Federal officials have begun a coordinated withdrawal of National Guard personnel from Chicago and Portland, marking a significant shift in the security posture of both cities after months of support operations. The drawdown, initiated by U.S. Northern Command over the weekend, follows the completion of key objectives tied to the Guard’s federal mission.
Troops Begin Leaving Chicago and Portland
In Chicago, nearly 200 Guard members assigned to assist local agencies began departing early Saturday. Their deployment, described as temporary and mission-specific, focused on reinforcing local authorities during a period of heightened operational demand.
Portland’s withdrawal is unfolding in phases. Guard units from Texas and California, who were mobilized as part of a multi-state effort, have already exited the city. Their departure marks a transition to a smaller, more localized federal presence.
Around 100 Oregon Guard Members to Stay Temporarily
Despite the broader drawdown, roughly 100 Oregon National Guard troops will remain on duty in the Portland area. According to military officials, these personnel will continue providing support for several more days as part of a tapered exit plan designed to maintain stability while operations wind down.
Mission Authorized Under Federal Order
The deployments in both cities were carried out under a federal directive issued by President Donald Trump, authorizing National Guard involvement to bolster local law enforcement capabilities. Military officials stated that the withdrawal reflects an assessment that the core mission objectives have been met, allowing the Guard to return to standard readiness duties.
Monitoring Continues as Conditions Evolve
While the majority of troops are heading home, federal officials emphasized that conditions in both cities will be monitored closely. The administration maintains the capacity to send support forces back if future circumstances require rapid reinforcement.
The ongoing transition signals a shift toward normalcy while retaining a contingency framework should new challenges emerge.
