Three states—West Virginia, South Carolina, and Ohio—have announced the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., in response to the Trump administration’s plans to reform policing amidst rising crime and homelessness concerns. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed that 300 to 400 Guard troops will be sent, with South Carolina and Ohio contributing 200 and 150 troops, respectively.
This move coincides with protests against federal law enforcement interventions in the predominantly Democratic city following President Trump’s executive order, which sought to federalise local police and activated around 800 members of the D.C. National Guard. This development has raised eyebrows among city officials, particularly as they state that violent crime rates have decreased since the beginning of Trump’s presidency.
While the National Guard’s role has largely been limited to crowd control and patrolling key areas such as the National Mall, there are mounting questions regarding the necessity for additional troops as the current deployment has not been linked to any specific crime surge. Demonstrators rallied in Dupont Circle, voicing opposition to what they perceive as a federal takeover of D.C.’s governance, with banners decrying the situation as a “fascist takeover.”
Protest organiser Morgan Taylor expressed hopes that these public demonstrations could influence the administration to reconsider its aggressive crime and immigration strategies. Participants voiced concerns regarding Trump’s potential overreach in using crime as a pretext to enhance federal control over the capital.
Amidst increasing visibility of federal agents in urban areas, reactions have varied. While some residents appreciate the heightened security, others are alarmed by the presence of unmarked officers and the implications for civil rights.
The situation intensified when the administration pivoted on a controversial plan to position the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration as a temporary police commissioner following a legal challenge from the district’s attorney. Trump’s declaration of an emergency highlights what he perceives as the city government’s failures, suggesting that these issues hinder federal interests and operations.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has emphasised the significance of community solidarity, asserting that residents will demonstrate resilience even in the face of diminished self-governing powers. As the cities brace for the influx of National Guard members, the balance between federal oversight and local autonomy remains a contentious topic of discussion across Washington.