Senate Questions General Mahoney on Trump’s Threat to Deploy Military in Chicago
September 11, 2025 | Armed Services: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The US Senate Committee on Armed Services convened on September 11, 2025, to discuss the nomination of General Christopher J. Mahoney, USMC, for reappointment to the grade of general and to serve as Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. A significant focus of the hearing was the role of the military in domestic situations, particularly in light of recent comments from President Trump regarding potential military deployment to American cities, including Chicago.
Senator Slotkin raised concerns about the appropriateness of using military forces for policing duties on US soil. She emphasized that the military's primary mission should not involve domestic law enforcement, especially in the absence of a foreign threat or natural disaster. General Mahoney responded by affirming his commitment to protecting all Americans but clarified that policing is not a mission for the Marine Corps. He stated, "I cannot imagine any situation where our task would be to violate any American citizen's civil rights."
Senator Duckworth echoed these concerns, expressing alarm over the potential blurring of lines between military and police roles. She criticized the president's approach as political theater that could undermine constitutional protections. Duckworth highlighted the historical context of military overreach and the importance of maintaining a clear separation between military and civilian law enforcement.
General Mahoney assured the committee that he would adhere to his oath and provide unfiltered advice to the president, particularly in matters that could lead to the misuse of military power. He emphasized the need for the military to focus on its core missions, especially in light of rising global threats, including challenges posed by China and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The hearing underscored the critical balance between national security and civil liberties, with senators expressing their expectation that General Mahoney would prioritize constitutional protections in his advisory role. The committee's discussions reflect ongoing tensions regarding the appropriate use of military force within the United States, a topic that remains highly relevant in contemporary political discourse.
Senator Slotkin raised concerns about the appropriateness of using military forces for policing duties on US soil. She emphasized that the military's primary mission should not involve domestic law enforcement, especially in the absence of a foreign threat or natural disaster. General Mahoney responded by affirming his commitment to protecting all Americans but clarified that policing is not a mission for the Marine Corps. He stated, "I cannot imagine any situation where our task would be to violate any American citizen's civil rights."
Senator Duckworth echoed these concerns, expressing alarm over the potential blurring of lines between military and police roles. She criticized the president's approach as political theater that could undermine constitutional protections. Duckworth highlighted the historical context of military overreach and the importance of maintaining a clear separation between military and civilian law enforcement.
General Mahoney assured the committee that he would adhere to his oath and provide unfiltered advice to the president, particularly in matters that could lead to the misuse of military power. He emphasized the need for the military to focus on its core missions, especially in light of rising global threats, including challenges posed by China and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The hearing underscored the critical balance between national security and civil liberties, with senators expressing their expectation that General Mahoney would prioritize constitutional protections in his advisory role. The committee's discussions reflect ongoing tensions regarding the appropriate use of military force within the United States, a topic that remains highly relevant in contemporary political discourse.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting