President Donald Trump referred to Memphis, Tennessee, as “deeply plagued.” The city reportedly has the highest violent crime rate in the U.S. among places with populations over 250,000, at about 2,501 per 100,000 residents, according to data cited by WSMV. Following Memphis, cities like Oakland, California, Detroit, Michigan, and Baltimore, Maryland, are also experiencing significant crime rates.
On “Fox & Friends” Friday morning, Trump expressed a desire to send troops to Chicago, emphasizing ongoing major immigration enforcement efforts, even as Democratic leaders oppose the move.
He suggested, “We will straighten the National Guard and others we need.” Trump then highlighted Memphis as a “great music city” and the “house of Elvis.”
In response to the proposed troop deployment, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris released a statement to Fox News Digital, expressing disappointment. He called the action “anti-democratic” and potentially in violation of U.S. law. Harris mentioned that while presidential actions can create confusion and fear in communities, especially among vulnerable populations, an occupation by federal forces could damage Tennessee’s reputation for years.
Harris further voiced that it “has a calm effect” on Tennesseans wishing to “exercise critical freedoms,” like protesting or traveling, and he vowed to do everything possible to avoid such invasions of Tennessee.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young acknowledged awareness of the potential troop deployment in a statement Thursday. He pointed out efforts aimed at reinforcing community strength and progress on crime, urging for more funding for law enforcement. Young stated, “Effective support for Memphis comes through intensive initiatives.”
Trump commented that “the mayor is happy” with the actions taken. In Washington, D.C., although Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser was initially critical of federal intervention, she later recognized the reduction in crime.
The national conversation regarding troops versus federal law enforcement strategies continues, especially around whether sending troops to major cities is the right approach.
Meanwhile, Senator Marsha Blackburn from Tennessee praised Trump’s decision to send the National Guard to Memphis, saying it was a positive step toward reducing urban crime. She remarked on Trump’s decision as a response to her call for action to ensure Memphis’ safety.
There might be links between the anticipated federal deployment in Memphis and Operation Viper, which aims to bolster the FBI and DEA presence in Western Tennessee.
As of now, the White House has not provided specific comments about Trump’s remarks following inquiries from Fox News Digital, which has also reached out to the Memphis Mayor’s office.
