States Mobilizing National Guard for Crime Control in DC

A week after President Trump revealed plans to deploy troops from the DC National Guard and federalize police stations, six states are stepping in to assist. They’ve announced their intention to send National Guard units to help combat crime in Washington.

The National Guards from Ohio, West Virginia, South Carolina, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee are currently involved in these efforts. In total, over 2,000 National Guard members are set to engage in this initiative, with approximately 1,300 already present in the capital.

As of Tuesday, about 500 troops from the West Virginia State Guard are on the ground in Washington. Once they’ve completed their training, they’ll join the DC National Guard to support ongoing missions.

Additional Troops Arriving for Expanded Crackdown

This past Monday, the governors of Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana confirmed they would send National Guard units. Mississippi is contributing 200 personnel, Tennessee will send 160, and Louisiana will deploy 135. South Carolina has also committed 200 troops, while Ohio plans to send 150 for the cause.

The decision results from requests from the War Department for assistance to the DC National Guard. Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine stated, “The Army Secretary asked me to send 150 military police officers to support the District of Columbia Guard.” He added that these troops will enhance security but are not currently serving as local law enforcement.

National Guard’s Role and Federal Response

The White House has indicated that the National Guard’s mission includes protecting federal assets and ensuring a safe environment for law enforcement, while also providing a reassuring presence against crime. Officials expressed gratitude for the support from local and state leaders eager to restore safety in the capital.

However, the Pentagon did not respond to inquiries about the involvement of National Guard units from various states in Washington’s operations. Trump’s initial proposal for federalizing local police was made in early August, with 800 National Guard troops activated shortly after.

While there’s a declared state of emergency allowing a temporary federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department, Washington’s officials are challenging this action legally. Attorney General Brian Schwarb criticized the administration’s moves, calling it “the most serious threat Home Rule DC has ever faced.”

Interestingly, Mayor Muriel Bowser has voiced her concerns about deploying troops, suggesting that the focus should be on addressing violent crime rather than the Trump administration’s aims regarding immigration. She shared her view that efforts should center around public safety without enveloping broader immigration issues.