Understanding the Insurrection Act
The Insurrection Act of 1807 is a U.S. federal law that empowers the president to deploy military forces domestically under specific circumstances, such as suppressing civil disorder, insurrection, or rebellion. The Act is considered as one of the most powerful emergency powers at the disposal of a president. In 230 years, the Act has been invoked in response to 30 crises including the Civil War and the most recent being the 1992 Los Angeles riots.
Under the Trump Administration
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump declared that a national emergency exists at the southern border of the United States. In the same month, he signed an executive order directing the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to submit a joint report within 90 days regarding conditions at the southern border. The report was to include recommendations on actions necessary to achieve complete operational control, including the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act. Deadline on the decision of military deployment for immigration enforcement will be made on April 20th.
April 20th and the Insurrection Act
As of now, no guarantee on whether or not Trump will choose to invoke the Insurrection Act on April 20th or at all. Despite no clear signaling on the possible outcome of the issue, it is necessary that we take action in preparation of what might happen as the date approaches.
Actions to Take
1. Call Your Representatives
Find your representatives:
https://www.congress.gov/members
Call script:
Hi, my name is [Your Name] and I’m a constituent from [Your City]. I’m calling to express concern over the potential abuse of the Insurrection Act by President Donald Trump. I urge [Senator/Rep Name] to support legislation that limits presidential authority under the Act and ensures military force cannot be used against peaceful protesters.
I’ve been following recent discussions around the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act, particularly concerning April 20th and how this date is being framed by some extremist circles. The rhetoric around it is alarming and seems intended to justify emergency powers or even military intervention in domestic matters. This is not how our democracy should function.
Please take immediate action to protect democratic principles and civil liberties. Thank you for your time—I look forward to your response on this issue.
2. Social Media Posts
Raise awareness about the implications of the Insurrection Act through social media. Use hashtags to bring the topic to top trending.
3. Get Involved
Joining protests can be a way to mobilize visible opposition that helps shape public opinion and influence policymakers.
Reference links