Rauner says yes to sending troopers to border; Senate feels otherwise

Posted on April 13, 2018
Bruce Rauner
Gov, Bruce Rauner has said he would likely to send Illinois National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border if President Donald Trump requests. (Photo courtesy Facebook/Bruce Rauner)

By RFD Radio/WFMB

SPRINGFIELD – President Donald Trump has indicated he’ll send National Guard troops to secure the nation’s southern border.

Some governors are balking at the request, others are enthusiastic. Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said there’s a precedent for such requests.

“I have not spent any time thinking about it, but frankly the president is the commander-in-chief of our military,” Rauner said. “President Obama sent troops, National Guard, to the border. President (George W.) Bush sent National Guard troops to the border.

“Illinois has not been requested to send troops. If we are requested, I believe we will honor that request.”

The Illinois Senate is urging Rauner to reject a presidential call to send National Guard troops to help secure the U.S.-Mexican border. The Democratic-controlled Senate voted 33-22 to urge Rauner not to comply if the president makes a request.

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