Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) drew parallels between President Trump’s police presence in Washington, D.C., and the period following U.S. Reconstruction when racism was institutionalized.
During a discussion on MSNBC’s “Politics” this past Sunday, civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton highlighted that three Republican-led states—Ohio, West Virginia, and South Carolina—would be dispatching hundreds of National Guard troops to Washington. This is part of a broader initiative related to Trump’s crime policies.
Sharpton reflected on the implications: “It’s primarily three states, predominantly white, two of them with Confederate histories, sending armed troops to one of our nation’s most African American cities at Trump’s request. What does this lead to, Congressman?”
“This is what I call Jim Crow 2.0,” Meeks responded. “If we look back at history, especially after Reconstruction, and compare it to what’s happening now under this president…”
He further noted, “He’s trying to deploy his forces into cities primarily governed by African American mayors, whether it’s in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, or Washington, D.C.”
Meeks accused Trump of breaching constitutional norms and infringing upon state sovereignty by sending in the National Guard. He characterized the action as “completely ruthless” and mentioned that he would raise this issue when Congressional Democrats, especially the Black Caucus members, reconvene after their August recess.
Meeks stated, “We must stand up and resist all of this, pastor. This isn’t something to be taken lightly.” He expressed confidence that once council members return to Washington, D.C., this topic would indeed be addressed among the Black Caucus members.
“We won’t just sit back and accept what’s happening,” he added. “We look forward to collaborating with you and other civil rights organizations. Our voices need to be amplified, and action is necessary.”
