The Pentagon announced on Friday that the National Guard in Washington, D.C., will soon be armed with service-issued weapons while assisting law enforcement in the city.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegses has signed an order to formalize this decision, which the White House hinted at over the weekend.
“Under the direction of the Secretary of Defense, members of JTF-DC will carry weapons that align with their mission and training, aimed at reducing crime rates in the capital,” Pentagon officials stated on Friday.
Last week, both the Pentagon and the Army made it clear that military personnel, nearly 2,000 members deployed from various units, were not armed while in the city.
However, on Saturday, the White House suggested that a statement would be forthcoming, indicating that the National Guard could be armed as part of their mission to protect federal assets and create a safer environment for law enforcement to tackle violent crime.
The Pentagon reiterated on Friday that “the interim command general of the DC National Guard has the authority to adjust the force posture as necessary to coordinate with local police and federal law enforcement.”
President Trump had previously invoked Section 704 of the Home Rules Act on August 11, which aimed to bolster federal control over local police and enhance efforts against drug trafficking and violent crimes.
During a meeting on Thursday with Washington police and military personnel, Trump praised their ongoing work, saying, “It’s like a different place, another city.” He emphasized the need for strength and fortitude among those in uniform.
Hegses, a former National Guard member, expressed his gratitude to approximately 300 guards stationed at the DC Armory, recognizing their role in safeguarding the nation and setting a positive example.
Meanwhile, several GOP-controlled states, including West Virginia and Louisiana, among others, have expressed varying views on these changes.
Despite concerns about crime, most residents of D.C. are skeptical about federal interventions, with local leaders and former officials warning that deploying soldiers might escalate violence due to inadequate community policing training.
