There have been rumors circulating on social media that US President Donald Trump made the declaration that he would be imposing martial law within the United States on April 20, 2025. This allegation is unfounded and untrue. The rumor is most likely due to an executive order Trump signed on his first day in office, January 20, 2025, when he issued a national emergency along the US southern border caused by the entry of cartels, criminal gangs, human traffickers, and illegal narcotics.
The executive order directed the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security to review the situation and make recommendations regarding invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807. The act permits the president to send federal military forces to assist civilian law enforcement in suppressing an insurrection. The 90-day time frame for the report, around April 19 or April 20, is perhaps what fostered the rumors.
Key Facts:
No Official Announcement: There has not been any official statement from the White House or Trump regarding imposing martial law on April 20.
Misunderstanding Executive Order: The executive order signed on January 20, 2025, was pertaining to the southern border crisis and not martial law.
Insurrection Act: The act gives the president the power to send military forces to put down revolts, but it does not mean martial law will be enforced.
Understanding Martial Law:
Martial law is an unusual and extreme step in which the military takes charge of the government and institutes law and order. In the United States, the Insurrection Act provides for the deployment of troops to aid civilian authorities, but it differs from declaring martial law.
Conclusion:
The rumor about Donald Trump invoking martial law on April 20, 2025, has no basis and no proof. One should only verify information on a reliable basis before passing on or believing ¹.