National Guard Deployment in Washington, DC
The National Guard units deployed in Washington, DC, have begun armed patrols as part of efforts by the Trump administration to combat violent crime in the area.
On Saturday, security guards indicated that members supporting the Joint Task Force-DC had received approval for the service’s M17 pistol. Brig. General Leland D. Blanchard, interim commander of security forces, mentioned that this decision was directed by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegses and involved collaboration with local and federal law enforcement. He stressed that the weapons are meant for personal protection, with troops operating under strict guidelines regarding force usage, including de-escalation techniques.
“This decision was not underestimated,” Blanchard stated. “We are working closely with our law enforcement partners and have all necessary review processes in place.”
Clarification on National Guard Deployment
Some reports noted that members of the security forces were armed differently; while some had handguns, others were equipped with rifles. An AP photographer even spotted a South Carolina security guard with a handgun holstered outside Union Station.
Although federal forces generally can’t partake in civil law enforcement due to the Assembly Act of 1878, the National Guard operates under Title 32 Section 502F, which bypasses these restrictions.
Colonel Larry Dawn, commander of the Joint Task Force DC, explained that members integrate de-escalation techniques into their rules for use of force, allowing them to support law enforcement effectively while ensuring the safety of DC residents.
Presidential Involvement and Future Efforts
President Donald Trump has been actively promoting the National Guard’s involvement in Washington, D.C., to address violent crime. A spokesperson for the Joint Task Force mentioned that 2,300 guards and airline personnel have been mobilized for this purpose.
Under the president’s direct authority, security personnel are stationed at memorials, checkpoints, and traffic stops throughout the city, aiming to deter crime and ensure visible security. Their patrols extend to Metro Stations, National Malls, and locations managed by the US Park Police.
Pentagon officials indicated that, soon, members of the joint task force would receive weapons aligned with their training and mission aimed at reducing crime rates in the capital. They also noted that interim security officers will coordinate efforts with DC police and federal law enforcement.
Boasting an operational success—465 arrests made so far—Trump indicated intentions to extend similar efforts to other cities after securing safety in Washington. “We’re going to make it safe and then move on elsewhere,” he remarked to federal agents and security personnel.
On Friday, Trump mentioned plans for future operations possibly targeting cities like Chicago and New York. Authorities also view the DC operations as part of a broader strategy leading up to next year’s 250th Independence Day celebration.
