WASHINGTON, D.C. : President Donald Trump has sent about 800 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., to deal with what the White House has called a “crime emergency.” This is an effort to show that the federal government is in charge of the capital. Videos on social media show soldiers on city streets during the mobilization, which started on Monday.
A White House official acknowledged the aim of the deployment, saying that the National Guard will “protect federal assets, provide a safe place for police to make arrests, and stop violent crime by being visible.” The troops will help local and federal law enforcement, not take their place.
The National Guard’s job and powers
Even if the military is clearly present, it’s important to know what the D.C. National Guard can’t do. These troops can’t make arrests because of the District’s Home Rule Act. Their only job is to help with administration and logistics and to be visible to keep crime from happening. Local or other federal law enforcement personnel must make any arrests or detentions.
The District’s Home Rule Act gives the president direct power over the D.C. National Guard, unlike state National Guards, which are under the command of their own governors. The president can send them out without the mayor’s permission because of this special position.
Important Information and Background
Troop Count: The Army has called up about 800 soldiers, and it’s thought that between 100 and 200 of them will be on the streets at any given time.
Duration: The deployment is set to last from August 11 to September 25, 2025, but it could be extended or ended early.
Reason: Trump says the deployment is necessary because of a rise in crime and disruption, although some data and municipal officials say violent crime is actually going down. The decision comes after a well-publicized attack on a former employee of the Department of Government Efficiency.
This isn’t the first time President Trump has sent the National Guard to Washington, D.C. He did it again in 2020 during protests when George Floyd died.