In a response to President Trump's declaration of a public safety emergency in Washington, DC, the governors of West Virginia, South Carolina, and Ohio have pledged to send National Guard troops to the city. This deployment comes amid protests from local residents who refute claims of rampant crime and express frustration over the federal presence.
National Guard Reinforcements Arrive in DC Amid Controversial Claims of Lawlessness
National Guard Reinforcements Arrive in DC Amid Controversial Claims of Lawlessness
Three Republican governors announce deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, DC amidst ongoing tensions and protests against President Trump's public safety assertions.
In a dramatic escalation of security measures, three Republican-led states have committed to deploying members of their National Guard forces to Washington, DC, in support of the approximately 800 troops already stationed there by President Donald Trump. West Virginia's Governor Patrick Morrisey announced plans to send between 300 and 400 troops at Trump's request, while South Carolina and Ohio will contribute 200 and 150 military police, respectively.
Trump announced the "public safety emergency" on Monday, citing what he termed "complete and total lawlessness" gripping the nation’s capital. This declaration has faced significant resistance from Washington's local officials and citizens, with hundreds participating in protests over the weekend. Many residents have voiced their discontent regarding Trump's portrayal of a city fraught with crime, particularly in an area where 92% of voters supported Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election.
Local protests intensified as residents gathered in Dupont Circle, chanting "Free DC!" and expressing their disapproval of the federal enforcement policies. Several took to recording the activities of federal officers patrolling the city's busy sectors. There have been rising concerns about crime, as indicated in surveys, especially following a reported attack on a former employee of Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency.
Despite Trump’s alarming narrative detailing “violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals,” Mayor Muriel Bowser has strongly disputed these assertions. She admitted to a momentary increase in crime during 2023 but pointed out that recent data from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) indicates a significant reduction in homicides — down 32% from 2023 to 2024, reaching the lowest levels since 2019. Furthermore, preliminary figures suggest a 26% decline in overall violent crime during the year so far, compared to the same point last year.
Initially, the Trump administration sought to commandeer the city’s police force under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act but retreated after facing legal action from local officials. However, a ruling by Judge Ana Reyes confirmed that Mayor Bowser is mandated to comply with White House directives, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.
