Trump Plans Deployment of State Guard to Memphis

President Trump announced on Friday that he intends to send the State Guard and other federal resources to Memphis, Tennessee, as part of a broader effort to tackle crime.

“We’re going to Memphis, which has serious issues,” Trump mentioned during an appearance on “Fox & Friends.”

“And the mayor is pleased. He’s a Democratic mayor, but he’s happy about it. The governor of Tennessee is on board as well,” he added.

“We’ll deploy the National Guard and anyone else we need, and, if necessary, we’ll bring in the troops,” Trump said.

Recent data from the FBI for 2024 shows that Memphis has the highest crime rate per 100,000 residents.

Mayor Paul Young of Memphis stated on Thursday that he had been informed earlier in the week about Trump and Governor Bill Lee’s considerations regarding the deployment of the National Guard in the city.

“I’m dedicated to enhancing our community and building on our progress,” Young commented to local media.

His office hasn’t yet responded to requests for clarification on Trump’s statements made on Friday.

Trump expressed a preference for federal law enforcement in Chicago but noted that city and state officials there had vigorously opposed such moves, indicating potential legal challenges regarding the National Guard’s deployment.

Last month, Trump increased federal law enforcement presence by sending National Guard troops to Washington. Although crime rates have reportedly dropped, many residents voiced concerns, particularly regarding immigrant apprehensions being a key focus of the operation. In addition to law enforcement, the National Guard is involved in cleaning up the city.

Furthermore, the White House had assumed control of a police station in the district for 30 days, but that arrangement expired this week. White House officials cite measures signed by DC Mayor Muriel Bowser that ensure ongoing collaboration between the city and the federal government.

Updated at 8:43am