National Guard Deployment Discussion

During Wednesday’s episode of CNN’s “The Lead,” Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-Va.) emphasized the need for a safety plan if the National Guard is to be deployed in American cities.

Host Erica Hill brought up Walkinshaw’s recent appointment to the House Committee on Homeland Security, asking how this role might influence efforts to protect military personnel.

Walkinshaw replied, “Well, it’s clear that, as I mentioned, many of us on the Democratic side believe that deploying National Guard troops in our cities isn’t ideal. However, if that is the reality, the administration must establish a clear strategy to ensure their safety. I also want to address the previous administration’s priorities, as they seem to have diverted attention from vital security issues to focus on mass deportations. We really need to shift our focus back to combating illegal gun trafficking, cross-border crimes, and counterterrorism efforts, ensuring safety for everyone in the U.S.”

Hill then asked Walkinshaw about the Trump administration’s decision to maintain a National Guard presence in Washington, D.C., requesting his perspective on potential further deployments.

Walkinshaw expressed his belief that the National Guard shouldn’t be in D.C. He pointed out that federal resources could be allocated more effectively towards tackling illegal gun trafficking and human trafficking, suggesting that the government is losing sight of crucial issues. “I think there are smarter ways to utilize federal resources than keeping the National Guard in U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C.,” he noted.