Army readies 1,500 soldiers for possible Minnesota deployment: sources

Published: Monday, January 19, 2026 at 2:07 pm

Pentagon Orders Troops to Prepare for Possible Minnesota Deployment

Washington, D.C. - The Pentagon has issued orders for approximately 1,500 active-duty soldiers to prepare for a potential deployment to Minnesota, according to two defense officials. The officials, speaking anonymously, stated that two infantry battalions from the Army's 11th Airborne Division, based in Alaska, have received "prepare-to-deploy" orders. This unit is trained for arctic conditions.

The potential deployment is linked to a large-scale immigration enforcement operation being conducted by federal authorities in Minnesota. The troops are on standby in case President Donald Trump invokes the Insurrection Act, a law from the 19th century that allows the president to deploy active-duty military personnel for law enforcement purposes.

This development follows Trump's recent threats to utilize the Insurrection Act to address protests against his administration's immigration policies. In a social media post, Trump indicated he would invoke the law if Minnesota officials did not comply with federal law and stop "agitators" from disrupting immigration enforcement efforts. While he later stated there was no immediate need to use the act, he emphasized its power and his willingness to use it if necessary.

The Insurrection Act has been a point of contention, with Trump having previously threatened to invoke it during protests in 2020 and more recently regarding immigration-related demonstrations. The law was last invoked in 1992 by President George H.W. Bush to address unrest in Los Angeles.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, has publicly urged President Trump to refrain from deploying troops, calling for de-escalation and an end to what he perceives as a campaign of retribution.

BNN's Perspective: The situation in Minnesota is undoubtedly tense. While the President has the authority to deploy troops under the Insurrection Act, such a move should be a last resort. The potential for escalating tensions and the impact on civil liberties must be carefully considered. A measured approach, prioritizing dialogue and de-escalation, is crucial to avoid further division and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.

Keywords: Army, Minnesota, deployment, Insurrection Act, Donald Trump, immigration, protests, Pentagon, military, Tim Walz, law enforcement, active duty, troops, defense, federal, government, politics, national security, civil unrest

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