This segment from a transcript features a tense exchange between a senator and a legal representative regarding the potential deployment of active-duty military, specifically the 82nd Airborne, into American cities to quell protests. The senator questions whether any city is in active insurrection and presses for a clear stance on whether the military should use force, such as shooting at the legs of unarmed protesters, if ordered by the Commander-in-Chief.

The legal representative cites historical precedents, mentioning the 1970s and the Pentagon's involvement, suggesting the president has authority to use federal troops to protect federal functions and property. However, when directly asked if they would push back against an order to shoot unarmed protesters, the response focuses on ensuring the president's directives comply with the Constitution and law, rather than a direct 'yes' or 'no' to defying the order. The exchange highlights the complex legal and ethical considerations surrounding the use of military force domestically and the concept of speaking 'truth to power'.