The decision by Davidson County Chancellor Patricia Head Moskal supported the lawsuit of the Democratic state and local officials filed the lawsuit, arguing that Republican Governor Bill Lee cannot deploy the Tennessee National Guard for civil unrest unless there is a rebellion or invasion, and even then, such a decision would require action from state legislators. The ruling halts the deployment of the National Guard to Memphis by declaring that Governor Lee acted beyond his authority. The judge determined that there was neither a “serious emergency,” nor a “disaster,” nor a request from local authorities, as required by law. The case was brought by a coalition of local and state leaders, including Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris; Memphis City Council Member JB Smiley, Jr.; Shelby County Commissioners Henri E. Brooks and Erika Sugarmon; and State Representatives GA Hardaway and Gabby Salinas. and State Senator Jeff Yarbro.

The coalition of plaintiffs issued the following joint statement, sent to La Opinion: “We brought this case because the people of Tennessee deserve leaders who abide by the law, respect our Constitution, and protect—not weaken—our democratic institutions. Today's decision makes it clear that no governor or president can deploy military force in our communities without legal authority, public accountability, or a genuine emergency. Military power should never be used as a political tool.”

“Memphis deserves public safety, Community investment and democratic decision-making processes—not illegal militarization.