EXCLUSIVE: Gillette Gives Green Light on ‘Defend the Guard’ Hearing

Arizona’s “Defend the Guard” bill, SB1495/HB2188, originally assigned to the House Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections (FMAE) Committee on March 12, 2025, received a green light for a hearing by Chairman John Gillette (R-30). Gillette had held off on moving forward with the hearing until receiving confirmation of federal support for the motion. He informed the Arizona Globe that after careful deliberation, he has scheduled a “special meet” session for the bill to be heard this Wednesday.

This legislation seeks to prohibit the deployment of Arizona National Guard troops into active combat without a formal declaration of war by Congress. This initiative is part of a broader national movement, with similar “Defend the Guard” bills being introduced in various states. The Globe previously reported on the bill, and you can read that here.

Chairman Gillette stated that he sought and received those assurances from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and President Trump, each expressing their backing for such legislation. That federal support was bolsetered by written testimony from Dan McKnight, a 13-year military veteran and chairman of Bring Our Troops Home, presented in support of North Dakota’s similar “Defend the Guard” bill. (Download letter, or read below.)

McKnight recounted a recent meeting with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in West Palm Beach, Florida, stating, “When I asked for his thoughts on the legislation, he again said, without hesitation, ‘I love this idea.’ He asked what he could do to help.” McKnight highlighted Hegseth’s understanding of the bill’s significance, noting that it upholds constitutional principles and safeguards National Guard members. Addressing concerns about opposition from some military officials, McKnight quoted Hegseth’s bewilderment: “What could possibly be the argument against a bill that ensures the National Guard is only deployed when Congress fulfills its constitutional duty?”

Such support from high-ranking federal officials underscores the growing momentum behind the broader “Defend the Guard” movement, aiming to realign military deployments with constitutional mandates and protect the men and women serving in the Guard.

Last year on Red Voice Media, Gillette—himself a former Command Sergeant Major—clearly laid out his position on the National Guard and the constitutional separation of powers. He also addressed concerns that the federal government might retaliate by relocating Arizona’s equipment or defunding the Guard. In his podcast, he pointed out that the Biden administration could’ve defunded the Texas National Guard when Governor Abbott defied federal orders and sent troops to the border—but Biden did nothing. Gillette told the Globe that inaction set an important precedent. And just to be sure, he took the extra step of seeking direct clarification from Secretary Hegseth and President Trump to confirm that such retaliation wouldn’t happen.

The Texas border situation could get out of control.

Being a retired Army CSM, I have a unique perspective on what could happen, including Biden taking over the TX National Guard. pic.twitter.com/b6K4D5AyW6

— Rep. John Gillette AZ House LD30 (@AzRepGillette) January 26, 2024

Chairman Gillette emphasized the importance of allowing public discourse and legislative due process for Arizona’s “Defend the Guard” bill. He stated: “I believe it’s essential to hear from all stakeholders and let our citizens decide the bill’s future. Whether it passes on the floor or secures the governor’s signature remians uncertain. However, I am committed to ensuring the bill receives a fair hearing in committee.”

FULL LETTER from Dan McNIGHT: