Tension escalates in Memphis as local leaders express concern about deploying National Guard troops amidst a legal battle with the Tennessee governor. Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris and other officials have been vocal about what they view as a disregard for local governance by state and federal authorities. Their growing frustration was articulated at a community update on Monday, where the presence of National Guard troops, perceived constitutional violations, and the erosion of Memphis' autonomy were hot-button issues. "Not only has the governor not consulted and had this voted on by the Tennessee General Assembly beforehand, but since the operation has begun, we have not been kept informed," State Representative G.A. Hardaway told Action News 5.
Adding to the unrest, thousands have taken to the streets in the "No Kings" protest against the National Guard's presence and the Memphis Safe Task Force's operations. Despite the protests and legal challenges, the task force deemed its recent apprehension of Ernest Jenkins, a "high-risk fugitive," a success. According to the Commercial Appeal, Jenkins was wanted on numerous felony charges and was caught during a targeted operation in Memphis on Sunday.
A blow to local leadership's efforts came when a judge recently denied a motion for a restraining order against the National Guard's activities, scheduling a hearing for November 3 instead. This decision did little to assuage concerns, as Mayor Harris underscored the discomfort residents feel, especially within the Hispanic community facing racial profiling concerns. "So obviously, I’m worried, I’m uncomfortable as I said. And racial profiling is against the federal constitution," Harris said during a press conference, per WREG.
