Deployment of National Guards to Washington, D.C.

Three Republican-led states are set to send hundreds of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., aimed at bolstering security amid ongoing concerns regarding crime and the presence of homelessness in the area.

West Virginia is dispatching up to 400 troops, while South Carolina will contribute 200 and Ohio is sending 150. This announcement was made on Saturday by officials from these states.

Major General Jim Seward from the West Virginia State Guard expressed readiness to assist in the national capital, stating, “We are prepared to help our partners in making our nation’s capital a safe and clean environment.”

The Governor of West Virginia, Patrick Morrissey, aligned this initiative with President Trump, reinforcing a sense of pride and beauty for the capital while emphasizing a collective commitment to a safer America.

South Carolina’s Governor, Henry McMaster, confirmed the deployment of 200 National Guard personnel, though he mentioned these troops could be recalled in case of a significant national emergency, like a hurricane.

He indicated that this move aligns with Trump’s strategies to restore law and order and is responsive to requests from the Department of Defense.

On the other hand, Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine announced that he would be sending 150 military police officers to support the National Guard in D.C.

DeWine mentioned that these Guard members would focus on patrol duties and offer additional security assistance. It’s noted that those being sent are not currently serving as law enforcement in Ohio.

With this deployment from the three states, the overall count of National Guard personnel in Washington will surpass 1,450. Historically, these National Guard members have maintained a limited role in federal operations.

Currently, the force is primarily tasked with patrolling significant sites like the National Mall and Union Station, as well as aiding law enforcement in managing crowds.