Missouri and Texas have taken preemptive measures by activating their National Guard units ahead of the “No Kings” protests planned nationwide on June 14 against President Donald Trump. Following Trump’s deployment of the California National Guard in response to protests in Los Angeles, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe and Texas Governor Greg Abbott have mobilized their respective National Guard units to maintain peace and order during the demonstrations.

Governor Kehoe emphasized Missouri’s proactive approach to supporting local law enforcement and protecting citizens amidst potential civil unrest, declaring a state of emergency in the state. This move reflects the escalating militarized response to protests surrounding Trump’s policies, including the deployment of U.S. Marines in addition to the National Guard.

The decision by Republican governors to independently activate the National Guard underscores the political tensions between state and federal authorities in managing public demonstrations. With millions of Americans expected to participate in the upcoming protests, governors are weighing the necessity of deploying the National Guard to maintain order against the possibility of Trump federalizing the units against their objections.

Amidst these developments, Democratic governors are strategizing on how to handle potential Guard deployments while emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest management by local law enforcement. The National Guard’s historical role in aiding with protest control, as seen during the George Floyd demonstrations in 2020, highlights its continued significance in maintaining public order during times of civil unrest.