A federal judge appointed by President Joe Biden has given former President Donald Trump’s administration just 48 hours to justify its decision to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago, deepening a political and legal showdown with Illinois’ Democratic leaders. U.S. District Judge April Perry issued the order Monday after Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Governor J.B. Pritzker, and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson filed a lawsuit to block the deployment. Though she declined to issue a temporary restraining order, Perry scheduled a full hearing for Thursday.

About 200 Texas National Guard troops are set to arrive in Chicago by Wednesday to aid federal agents addressing gang violence and immigration issues. The Trump administration defends the move as lawful under the Insurrection Act, with Trump stating, “We’re going to keep Chicago safe.”

Illinois officials argue the deployment is unconstitutional and politically motivated, calling it “retaliation” against Democratic-led jurisdictions. Governor Pritzker accused the administration of provoking chaos for political gain, while Attorney General Raoul stated, “There is no insurrection in Chicago.”

Tensions have escalated, with federal agents using tear gas and making arrests during protests outside an ICE facility. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described Chicago as “a war zone,” while Illinois leaders condemned the use of force.

The White House maintains the operation is temporary and focused on safety. Legal scholars say the outcome of Thursday’s hearing could set a major precedent on presidential authority to deploy troops domestically. Judge Perry has given the administration until Wednesday night to respond.