COLUMBUS, Ohio – Governor Mike DeWine has taken a stand against proposed legislation that would permanently federalize portions of the Ohio National Guard into the U.S. Space Force, calling on President Joe Biden to withdraw the initiative.
The U.S. Air Force sent Legislative Proposal 480 to Congress in March, seeking to federalize U.S. National Guard units, including those from Ohio, into the U.S. Space Force. This move would grant the U.S. Secretary of the Air Force sole discretion to relocate soldiers or dissolve their units. Governor DeWine expressed his concerns about this proposal in a letter to the President, highlighting how it would undermine the intent of the Militia Act of 1903 and circumvent the authority of governors nationwide.
“As Commander in Chief of the Ohio National Guard, I retain the responsibility for these military organizations and their missions,” Governor DeWine emphasized. “Usurping this power would be unprecedented, and I respectfully ask that you do not do so. Every Ohio National Guard member takes an oath not only to the United States of America, but to Ohio as well. I honor their dual commitment by ensuring that all Ohio National Guard members can serve in the communities where they live, work, and raise their families. When called, they stand ready to deploy – anytime, anywhere.”
While expressing his overall support for the missions of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, Governor DeWine urged the federal government to explore alternative methods for leveraging the Ohio National Guard to support these missions. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the Guard’s ability to serve in their local communities while being prepared for national deployment when needed.
