[Video] Illinois National Guard member Demi Palecek refuses deployment due to heritage

Video: Illinois National Guard member Demi Palecek expresses her refusal to deploy to Chicago, citing her Mexican heritage and commitment to protecting immigrant families. The video features her statements regarding her opposition to potential activation for federal immigration enforcement. Palecek, a Democratic candidate for state office, first voiced her concerns in October. The Defense Department has suspended her security clearance and is investigating her for possible insubordination, as no deployment orders have been issued yet. Footage taken on December 14, 2025.