Amid tensions in Washington, DC, three Republican-led states are sending National Guard troops to support President Trump's security efforts, escalating protests from local residents who challenge claims of widespread crime in the city.
National Guard Deployment: Republican States Bolster Security in Washington, DC
National Guard Deployment: Republican States Bolster Security in Washington, DC
Three Republican-led states mobilize National Guard troops in response to claims of "lawlessness" in the nation's capital.
Three Republican-controlled states are planning to dispatch members of their National Guard forces to Washington, DC, to reinforce the approximately 800 troops already stationed there as part of an increased security effort initiated by President Donald Trump. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced he would send 300-400 troops upon Trump’s request. Similarly, South Carolina will contribute 200, and Ohio will deploy 150 military police personnel.
Trump declared a "public safety emergency" earlier this week, claiming that Washington, DC, is facing a state of "complete and total lawlessness." However, elected officials in the District have reacted strongly against these assertions, and over the weekend, hundreds of citizens protested in response.
Federal law enforcement agencies have been spotted patrolling the most frequented areas in Washington, working alongside National Guard members amid rising public dissent. Many residents, who predominantly voted for Vice President Kamala Harris in the previous election, have expressed their dissatisfaction with Trump's assertion of an enforcement crisis.
During peaceful demonstrations, participants gathered in Dupont Circle chanting "Free DC!" and expressing their discontent with current policies. Some activists have taken to documenting the presence of federal officers on patrol.
Local surveys reveal that residents in Washington, DC, are increasingly concerned about crime, further fueled by a recent violent incident involving a former employee of the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (Doge). Despite Trump's narrative portraying the capital as plagued by "violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals," Mayor Muriel Bowser has disputed such claims, recognizing a past spike in crime that has since declined.
Official data from the Metropolitan Police Department indicates a dramatic decrease in homicides of 32% from 2023 to 2024, marking the lowest rate since 2019. Additionally, preliminary statistics reveal a significant 26% drop in overall violent crime so far in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, along with a 28% fall in robbery, as confirmed by BBC Verify.
Despite initially attempting to command the city's Metropolitan Police Department using the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, the Trump administration revoked this order following legal challenges from local officials. A judge ruled that Mayor Bowser must adhere to directives from the White House; nevertheless, the city's police chief retains command post-agreement with the Trump administration.
