In recent developments, podcaster Joe Rogan has expressed disapproval of President Donald Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard in several of America's largest cities. This move by the President is part of a broader initiative to bolster Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) efforts and manage a spike in urban crime. The cities affected by this order are primarily governed by Democratic officials.
The critique from Rogan, who previously endorsed President Trump, emerged during his podcast episode last week. Rogan conveyed apprehension about the military's presence on public streets, labeling it a "dangerous precedent." His discontent extended to ICE's operational methods, specifically the apprehension of illegal immigrants at locations such as Home Depot, which he denounced as "not cool."
Joe Rogan, whose podcast "Powerful JRE" commands a substantial following on YouTube, has been known for his forthright opinions on political matters. Despite endorsing President Trump in the past, Rogan did not shy away from questioning the recent actions involving the National Guard and ICE.
During the podcast, Rogan also pondered over the inaction of Democratic leaders in the face of riots and destruction of property, referencing the tumultuous events linked to "Black Lives Matter" activists in the summer of 2020. He implied a need for balance and dialogue on the issue, recognizing the complexity and multifaceted nature of the situation.
Rogan's sharp commentary on the deployment of the National Guard comes after his earlier rebuke of ICE operations, where he highlighted the distressing nature of arresting individuals, some of whom have lived in the U.S. for decades, in front of their children. He emphasized the emotional impact such actions have on the public, suggesting that it contradicts basic human compassion.
The national conversation on this topic gained further momentum just days before the Trump administration sought the U.S. Supreme Court's intervention to permit the National Guard's deployment in Illinois. A federal judge's order had previously restricted such action, prompting U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer to argue the necessity of the deployment for the protection of federal personnel and to uphold the President's authority.
The unfolding debate over the deployment of the National Guard and the role of ICE in urban areas has ignited discussions on the appropriate use of military force within the U.S. and the implications for civil liberties and immigration policy.