Residents in Memphis, Tennessee, have largely welcomed President Donald Trump’s decision to send in the National Guard as part of a strategy to tackle crime in the area.
In a recent interview on “Fox & Friends,” Trump expressed his intention to deploy the National Guard to Memphis, stating the city is “in deep trouble.” This comes as the city prepares for approximately 150 National Guard members to arrive in early October, according to the Wall Street Journal.
John Green, a candy store owner in Memphis, mentioned, “We’re looking for all the help we can get. I wish there was more help,” reflecting the sentiment of many local business owners. He also noted that business has been struggling and that “people just don’t want to come here anymore.” In contrast, George Campbell, a psychologist based in Memphis, commented that the presence of National Guard troops has alleviated some fears regarding violent crime. “It’s safe,” he said. “What happened is in control. It was out of control. This is necessary.”
Memphis currently has the highest violent crime rate in the United States, reporting 2,501 violent crimes per 100,000 people, as per NBC affiliate WSMV. However, the Memphis Police recently reported that overall crime in the city has dropped to a 25-year low, with significant declines in robberies and thefts.
In an interview with the Journal, Memphis Mayor Paul Young, a Democrat, remarked that while deploying the National Guard wasn’t his ideal solution, he aims to “make the best of this situation.” He acknowledged the decision was made without his approval but expressed a desire to work within the circumstances. Gail Jones Carson, president of the Memphis Urban League, expressed skepticism about the National Guard being a long-term answer to the crime problem, asking, “But do we need to be invaded?”
On the other hand, 18-year-old Claire Norwood shared that she feels a bit safer with the military presence in the city. “Most of us feel a little bit safer,” she stated.
Trump’s presidential memorandum outlined on September 15 emphasizes the need to eradicate “street crime and violent crime in Memphis,” highlighting the city’s cultural significance, including its ties to Elvis Presley and the music scene. Republican State Senator Marsha Blackburn took to social media on October 17 to praise Trump for his efforts, saying Memphis is on a path to becoming safe again, suggesting it could serve as a model for crime-fighting nationally.
