DeSantis Pentagon Plan B: How a State Governor’s Scheme Could Spark a Constitutional Crisis
The latest salvo in the ongoing battle over national sovereignty and federal authority comes courtesy of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who announced a plan to use a state law to take control of the Pentagon’s power to deploy National Guard units. Dubbed “DeSantis Plan B,” the proposal seeks to grant the governor, rather than the federal government, control over the deployment of Guard units within the state. The move is being seen as a major escalation of the ongoing debate over state and federal power.
In a statement, DeSantis claimed that his proposal was necessary due to “the Biden administration’s clear disregard for state sovereignty.” He argued that by seizing control of the Pentagon’s power to deploy Guard units, he could better defend Florida’s interests and avoid the kind of bureaucratic hurdles that have plagued state-national coordination in the past.
However, experts warn that DeSantis’ proposal could have far-reaching implications for the Constitution and federal-state relations. The Department of Defense (DoD) has traditionally had primary authority over the National Guard, and DeSantis’ plan could be seen as an encroachment on federal power.
“A state governor trying to commandeer the National Guard and take control of its deployment away from the federal government could be seen as an insurrection,” warned James Thayer, a former deputy secretary of defense. “It’s a very troubling development, and it challenges the fundamental principle of a federal system.”
Other observers have raised concerns about the potential for gridlock and confusion if DeSantis’ plan is implemented. “The National Guard is a dual-status force, with roles and responsibilities that are fundamentally tied to federal and state authorities,” said Mark Hertling, a retired U.S. Army general. “If a state governor starts making unilateral decisions about the deployment of National Guard units, it could lead to a lot of unnecessary confusion and tension.”
While DeSantis’ plan remains just a proposal for now, it has sparked intense debate and concern among federal and state officials, national security experts, and legal scholars. As the issue continues to unfold, it will be crucial for policymakers and the public to carefully weigh the potential consequences of granting a state governor greater authority over the National Guard – and the potential implications for the Constitution and federal-state relations.
