What Happens if Trump Invokes the Insurrection Act?

Jack and Bob examine President Trump’s threat to invoke the Insurrection Act in response to ICE-related unrest in Minneapolis. They discuss the Act’s broad language, the uncertain scope of presidential discretion, the many unresolved constitutional questions that the Supreme Court might consider, and the political and legal risks of deploying troops domestically—particularly against the backdrop of upcoming elections.

Further reading:

“Trump Threatens to Invoke the Insurrection Act” by Bob Bauer and Jack Goldsmith (Executive Functions, Jan. 15, 2026)

“Thoughts on the Interim Order in Trump v. Illinois” by Jack Goldsmith (Executive Functions, Dec. 24, 2025)

“Trolling About Habeas Corpus” by Jack Goldsmith (Executive Functions, May 12, 2025)

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