WASHINGTON (AP) — The Washington D.C. National Guard will be extended in the nation's capital through the end of February, according to formal orders reviewed by The Associated Press.
Dated Nov. 4, the order extends the original deployment from Aug. 11, mandating the Guard members remain in the city at least until Feb. 28, effectively responding to the urgent situation declared by President Donald Trump. Their duty encompasses protecting federal property and assisting federal and District law enforcement officers.
Since August, hundreds of National Guard troops have been stationed in the capital to what Trump termed a crime-fighting mission, which included federal oversight of the local police. Although that order expired in September, almost 2,000 National Guard troops from D.C. and various states are still persisting in the city, with intentions from most contingents to withdraw by the end of November.
The D.C. National Guard leads with 949 soldiers contributing to a total task force of 2,375, while West Virginia ranks next with 416 guardsmen.
The troop presence in the capital is significant, with armed guards providing reassurance in public spaces, notably in federal parks, at subway stations, and at Amtrak’s train station. Primarily, the task force has been engaged in community projects, reportedly handling outdoor beautification efforts such as clearing waste and maintaining landscaping.
However, their mission has ignited significant controversy, with an ongoing lawsuit led by D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb questioning the rationale behind extending military presence in the predominantly Democratic city. This lawsuit has drawn additional support, with 45 states weighing in—23 in favor of the Trump administration and 22 backing Washington.
Judge Jin Cobb heard arguments regarding the legality of the deployment on Oct. 24 but has yet to reach a decision. Complications regarding additional troop deployments from other states remain, as several states indicated a plan to conclude their missions by Nov. 30, subject to further governmental orders.
