Trump Announces Crime Crackdown in Memphis: National Guard to be Deployed

Tue Sep 16 2025 12:18:16 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

President Trump, alongside Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, has launched a new task force aimed at combating crime in Memphis, echoing the recent DC crackdown. Local officials, however, express concern over federal intervention.

In a recent press conference, President Trump announced plans to deploy the National Guard to Memphis, Tennessee, in a bid to curb rising crime rates. This initiative mirrors actions taken in Washington DC. Local authorities, including Memphis' Mayor Paul Young, have expressed opposition, stating that crime is already decreasing without federal involvement. Trump's new task force will involve multiple federal agencies to tackle what he describes as an 'overrun' city plagued by violent crime.

US President Donald Trump, joined by Tennessee's Republican Governor Bill Lee, established a task force to address escalating crime in Memphis, Tennessee. This initiative follows Trump's controversial strategies implemented in Washington DC.

While declaring Memphis overrun with carjackings, robberies, and shootings, Trump emphasized the need for federal intervention, asserting, We're not going to allow this kind of savagery to destroy our society anymore. He noted that the Memphis task force would mirror successful operations seen in DC.

Governor Lee has backed the federal plan, highlighting its potential to lower crime, whereas Mayor Paul Young voiced concerns, arguing that the city is already seeing a decline in crime rates without outside help.

Trump's commitment to deploying federal resources includes mobilizing agencies like the FBI and the National Guard, with a prior focus on cities like Chicago and New Orleans, signaling his ambition to confront urban violence across the nation.

This announcement follows a January surge in federal law enforcement in DC, which reportedly led to significant arrests and firearm confiscations. However, the presence of National Guard troops has sparked controversy, with many residents and legal experts questioning its legality and local acceptance.