A federal judge in Washington heard arguments Thursday over the Trump administration's deployment of National Guard troops to American cities. Democratic state officials and civil liberties groups sought to block the policy, arguing the deployments exceed presidential authority.

President Donald Trump expanded Guard operations beyond the capital to additional cities this summer, framing the move as a response to violent crime. Lawyers for the plaintiffs contended the deployments violate the Posse Comitatus Act and the constitutional powers reserved to states.

The American Civil Liberties Union and attorneys general from several Democratic-led states filed briefs challenging the scope of the operations. Justice Department lawyers defended the deployments as lawful exercises of the president's authority to protect federal property and personnel.

Governors in the affected cities, including Democratic officials who objected to federalized troops on their streets, have warned the policy sets a dangerous precedent. Republican allies of the president countered that the deployments had reduced crime and restored order in targeted neighborhoods.

The judge indicated written arguments would be reviewed before any decision on an injunction. Legal analysts at Georgetown Law said the case is likely to reach appellate courts regardless of the outcome.