West Virginia sends hundreds of National Guard members to D.C. at Trump team's request
latimes.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 4:56:46 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Political Protests & Rallies, State Politics & Governors, Foreign Policy & International Relations
WASHINGTON -- Hundreds of West Virginia National Guard members will deploy across the nation's capital as part of the Trump administration's assumption of control over policing in the District of Columbia in what it says is part of a nationwide crackdown on crime on homelessness.
The move comes as federal agents and National Guard troops have begun to appear across the heavily Democratic city after Trump's executive order on Monday federalizing local police forces and activating about 800 D.C. National Guard troops.
By adding outside troops to join the existing National Guard deployment and federal law enforcement officers temporarily assigned to Washington, President Trump is exercising even tighter control over the city. It's a power play that the president has justified as an emergency response to crime and homelessness, even though district officials have noted that violent crime is lower than it was during Trump's first term in office.
A protest against Trump's intervention drew scores to Washington's Dupont Circle on Saturday afternoon before a march to the White House, about a mile and a half away. Demonstrators assembled behind a banner that said, "No fascist takeover of D.C.," and some in the crowd held signs that said, "No military occupation." Trump was at his Virginia golf club after Friday's summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey, a Republican, announced Saturday that he was sending a contingent of 300 to 400 National Guard members.
"West Virginia is proud to stand with President Trump in his effort to restore pride and beauty to our nation's capital," Morrisey said.
Morgan Taylor, one of the organizers of Saturday's protest, said demonstrators who turned out on a hot summer day were hoping to spark enough backlash to Trump's actions that the administration would be forced to pull back.
"It's hot, but I'm glad to be here. It's good to see all these people out here," she said. "I can't believe that this is happening in this country at this time."
Protesters said they are concerned about what they view as Trump's overreach, arguing that he had used crime as a pretext to impose his will on Washington.
John Finnigan, 55, was taking an afternoon bike ride when he ran into the protest in downtown Washington. A real estate construction manager who has lived in the capital for 27 years, he said that Trump's moves were "ridiculous" because "crime is at a 30-year low here."
"Hopefully some of the mayors and some of the residents will get out in front of it and try and make it harder for it to happen in other cities," Finnigan said.
Jamie Dickstein, a 24-year-old teacher, said she was "very uncomfortable and worried" for the safety of her students given the "unmarked officers of all types" now roaming Washington and detaining people.
Dickstein said she turned out to protest with friends and relatives to "prevent a continuous domino effect going forward with other cities."
The West Virginia National Guard activation suggests the administration sees the need for additional manpower, after Trump played down the need for Washington to hire more police officers.
Maj. Gen. James Seward, West Virginia's adjutant general -- a chief aide to the governor and commanding general of the National Guard -- said in a statement that members of the Guard "stand ready to support our partners in the National Capital Region" and that the Guard's "unique capabilities and preparedness make it an invaluable partner in this important undertaking."
Federal agents have appeared in some of the city's most highly trafficked neighborhoods, garnering a mix of praise, resistance and alarm from local residents and leaders across the country.
City leaders, who are obligated to cooperate with the president's order under the federal laws that direct the district's local governance, have sought to work with the administration, though they have bristled at the scope of the president's takeover.
On Friday, the administration reversed course on an order that aimed to place the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration as an "emergency police commissioner" after the district's top lawyer sued to contest. After a court hearing, Trump's attorney general, Pam Bondi, issued a memo that directed D.C.'s Metropolitan Police Department to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement regardless of any city law.
District officials say they are evaluating how to best comply.
In his order Monday, Trump declared an emergency, citing the "city government's failure to maintain public order." He said that impeded the "federal government's ability to operate efficiently to address the nation's broader interests without fear of our workers being subjected to rampant violence."
In a letter to city residents, Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat, wrote that "our limited self-government has never faced the type of test we are facing right now."
She added that if Washingtonians stick together, "we will show the entire nation what it looks like to fight for American democracy -- even when we don't have full access to it."
Sign Our PetitionThe recent decision by West Virginia’s Republican Governor Patrick Morrisey to deploy hundreds of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., at the request of the Trump administration, highlights a troubling trend of federal overreach and the militarization of policing in America. This move, framed by the Trump administration as a necessary response to crime and homelessness, raises significant concerns not only about the safety and autonomy of D.C. residents but also about the implications for civil liberties and the ongoing struggle against systemic injustice. The deployment comes despite data indicating that violent crime in Washington has significantly decreased, suggesting that the administration is using fear-mongering tactics to justify an unnecessary show of force.
Historically, the use of the National Guard and federal forces in domestic policing has often been a tool of political repression, particularly against marginalized communities. This deployment reflects a pattern that dates back to the civil rights era when federal troops were used to maintain order during protests and civil disobedience. The invocation of the National Guard in response to non-existent crime crises echoes past instances where governmental power has been wielded to suppress dissent rather than protect the public. The protests against this military presence, which included banners proclaiming "No fascist takeover of D.C." and "No military occupation," signal a growing awareness among citizens about the dangers of this trajectory and its historical precedents.
Moreover, the context of this action cannot be divorced from the broader societal struggles surrounding housing and homelessness. The Trump administration's rhetoric about "restoring pride and beauty" to the nation’s capital is deeply troubling, especially when viewed through the lens of social justice. Many residents and advocates argue that homelessness is not merely a crime issue but a complex social problem rooted in systemic inequality, lack of affordable housing, and inadequate social services. By framing homelessness as a security issue, the administration diverts attention from the need for comprehensive policy solutions that address the underlying economic and social factors contributing to these challenges.
The response from citizens, as demonstrated by the protests, reflects a critical engagement with the issues at hand. Activists like Morgan Taylor, who participated in the Dupont Circle demonstration, express a palpable concern for the implications of such military action on civil liberties and community safety. The presence of unmarked officers and the militarization of public spaces can create an atmosphere of fear and distrust, particularly among communities already marginalized by systemic racism and economic disenfranchisement. This situation only exacerbates the challenges faced by residents living in poverty, reinforcing the divide between those in power and the communities they claim to govern.
Furthermore, this moment serves as an opportunity for a broader conversation about the role of policing in America. As public awareness grows regarding police violence and misconduct, particularly against Black and brown communities, the deployment of the National Guard in urban spaces serves as a stark reminder of the need for transformative change. The narrative surrounding crime and security must shift from punitive measures to restorative justice approaches that prioritize community well-being. This incident in Washington, D.C., should galvanize activists and concerned citizens to advocate for policies that address the root causes of crime, promote equitable resource distribution, and prioritize the dignity and rights of all individuals, especially those most vulnerable.
In conclusion, the deployment of the National Guard to Washington, D.C., under the Trump administration’s directive, is a troubling instance of federal overreach that raises significant concerns about civil liberties and social justice. As history has shown, such actions can lead to the suppression of dissent and exacerbate existing inequalities. The ongoing protests against this militarization of policing illustrate a growing resistance to these trends, advocating for a more just and equitable society. In engaging with right-wing narratives, it is essential to emphasize the historical context, the social justice dimensions of homelessness, and the need for a paradigm shift in how society addresses crime and community safety. This moment is not only about resisting the current administration's actions but also about envisioning and fighting for a future that prioritizes justice for all.
The recent deployment of hundreds of National Guard members from West Virginia to Washington, D.C., at the behest of the Trump administration, is a troubling manifestation of federal overreach that raises significant concerns about civil liberties and the nature of governance in this country. This action has been framed as a response to rising crime and homelessness; however, the underlying motivations appear to be more about consolidating power and undermining local autonomy. The historical context of federal intervention in local matters, particularly in urban areas, paints a concerning picture of how the executive branch can manipulate crises to extend control.
Throughout American history, the federal government has occasionally intervened in local law enforcement, often under the guise of maintaining order. However, such actions have frequently been met with resistance, as seen during the civil rights movement, when federal troops were deployed to protect demonstrators and enforce desegregation laws. The Trump administration's decision to federalize police forces in D.C. echoes this history but flips it on its head: instead of protecting citizens’ rights, it seems to prioritize the federal government's ability to impose its will on a population that largely does not support it. The claim that violent crime in D.C. warrants such extreme measures ignores the statistical realities, as crime rates are at historic lows. This contradiction amplifies the perception that the administration is using crime as a pretext for political maneuvering.
As Americans concerned about these developments, it is essential to mobilize and advocate for local control over policing and governance. One effective strategy is to support local leaders and community organizations that seek to keep police actions accountable and maintain local governance. Engaging in grassroots movements, such as attending city council meetings or participating in community forums, can empower residents to voice their opposition to federal overreach. The recent protests against Trump's intervention signal a growing discontent, and it is crucial that this momentum translates into sustained activism. Individuals can also reach out to their congressional representatives to express disapproval of such actions, urging them to support legislation that protects local autonomy and restricts federal intervention in policing.
Education and awareness-raising are also pivotal. Many citizens may not be aware of the history and implications of federalizing police forces or the potential risks associated with a militarized police presence in urban areas. Hosting community workshops, panels, or discussions that inform residents about their rights and the implications of federal overreach can foster a more informed electorate. Additionally, fostering dialogues that encourage critical thinking about governance can help dismantle the narrative that justifies military intervention in civilian affairs.
Furthermore, it is vital to forge coalitions across different communities and political beliefs to build a united front against such federal actions. By working with a diverse array of groups, from civil rights organizations to local political factions, we can create a more significant pushback against the normalization of militarized responses to social issues like crime and homelessness. Collaborative efforts can amplify our voices and help shift the narrative away from a fear-based perspective to one that emphasizes community resilience, compassion, and democratic accountability.
In conclusion, the deployment of National Guard troops in D.C. represents a critical moment for American democracy. It challenges the boundaries of local governance and raises questions about the implications of using federal power to address local issues. By actively engaging in advocacy, education, and coalition-building, we can work together to preserve the integrity of local governance and ensure that the voices of communities are heard and respected in the face of federal overreach. This moment calls for vigilance and action; it is our responsibility to stand firm against any encroachment on our democratic rights.
In light of recent developments regarding the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., there are several personal actions that individuals can take to address concerns about federal overreach, policing, and community safety. Below is a detailed list of ideas and actions that can be pursued:
### Personal Actions
1. **Engage in Local Activism**: Join or support local organizations that advocate for civil rights and community safety. Look for groups that focus on police reform, homelessness, and social justice.
2. **Participate in Protests**: Attend local protests and rallies that oppose the militarization of police and advocate for community-led safety solutions. Ensure to share information about these events through social media to encourage wider participation.
3. **Educate Yourself and Others**: Take time to learn about the implications of federalizing police forces. Share articles, research, and personal insights with friends and family to raise awareness of the situation.
### Specific Actions
1. **Petition for Change**: Start or sign petitions that call for the de-escalation of police presence in communities and advocate for more investment in social services rather than militarized responses. Websites like Change.org can be useful for finding or creating petitions.
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: Write to your local and federal representatives expressing your concerns about the deployment of National Guard troops and the federal overreach into local governance. Here are some contacts you can use:
- **Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV)** - Email: manchin.senate.gov/contact - Phone: (202) 224-3954 - Mailing Address: 306 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- **Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)** - Email: capito.senate.gov/contact - Phone: (202) 224-6472 - Mailing Address: 172 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- **Representative David McKinley (R-WV)** - Email: mckinley.house.gov/contact - Phone: (202) 225-4172 - Mailing Address: 2182 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
- **Mayor of Washington, D.C. Muriel Bowser** - Email: eom@dc.gov - Phone: (202) 727-6300 - Mailing Address: 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
3. **Social Media Advocacy**: Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to raise awareness about the impacts of militarized policing. Create posts that highlight the importance of community safety, the need for police reform, and the realities of crime rates in D.C.
4. **Organize Community Discussions**: Host or participate in community forums to discuss the implications of federal involvement in local policing. Collaborate with local leaders to create a safe space for dialogue about community needs and policing policies.
5. **Support Local Businesses and Services**: Invest time and resources into local businesses and organizations that align with community safety and welfare. This can help foster a sense of community resilience that reduces dependence on external policing.
6. **Volunteer for Nonprofits**: Engage with nonprofits that address homelessness and crime prevention through rehabilitation and social support services. Organizations focusing on mental health, housing, and youth programs can be effective allies in reducing crime rates without relying on militarized responses.
### What to Say
When contacting elected officials or participating in discussions, you might consider saying something like:
- "I am deeply concerned about the recent deployment of National Guard troops in D.C. This action feels like an overreach of federal power and undermines local governance. I urge you to advocate for a de-escalation of military presence and to prioritize funding for social services that address the root causes of crime and homelessness."
- "In light of the recent events, it’s crucial that we focus on community-led solutions to safety rather than increasing militarization. I encourage you to support initiatives that promote social welfare and address the needs of our communities."
By actively engaging in these actions, individuals can contribute to a collective effort aimed at protecting local governance, advocating for justice, and building safer communities through constructive means.