Three Republican-led states to deploy national guard troops to US capital
freemalaysiatoday.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 12:58:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: State Politics & Governors, Presidential Campaigns, Social Media & Public Statements
WASHINGTON: The Republican governors of three states are deploying hundreds of national guard troops to Washington DC at the request of the administration of president Donald Trump, who has portrayed the city as awash in crime.
The announcements on Saturday of troops from hundreds of miles away in West Virginia, South Carolina and Ohio came a day after DC officials and the Trump administration negotiated a deal to keep mayor Muriel Bowser's appointed police chief, Pamela Smith, in charge of the police department after DC attorney general Brian Schwalb filed a lawsuit to block the federal takeover of the department.
Trump, a Republican, said this week he was deploying hundreds of DC national guard troops to Washington and temporarily taking over the Democratic-led city's police department to curb what he depicted as a crime and homelessness emergency.
Justice department data, however, showed violent crime in 2024 hit a 30-year low in Washington, a self-governing federal district under the jurisdiction of Congress.
West Virginia governor Patrick Morrisey's office said in a statement he was deploying 300 to 400 national guard troops to DC in "a show of commitment to public safety and regional cooperation". The statement said he also was providing equipment and specialised training.
South Carolina governor Henry McMaster responded to a Pentagon request by announcing that 200 of his state's national guard troops would be sent.
Ohio governor Mike DeWine said he would send 150 military police members in the coming days, adding none of them were "currently serving as law enforcement officers in the state."
After the announcements, Mayor Bowser posted on X: "American soldiers and airmen policing American citizens on American soil is #UnAmerican."
Troops to other cities?
The national guard serves as a militia that answers to the governors of the 50 states except when called into federal service. The DC national guard reports directly to the president.
Trump, who has suggested he could take similar actions in other Democratic-controlled cities, has sought to expand the powers of the presidency in his second term, inserting himself into the affairs of major banks, law firms and elite universities.
In June, Trump ordered 700 marines and 4,000 national guard troops to Los Angeles, against the wishes of California's Democratic governor, during protests over mass immigration raids by federal officials.
South Carolina's McMaster said his troops would immediately return to South Carolina if needed to respond to a possible hurricane or other natural disaster.
Hurricane Erin, now northeast of Puerto Rico, has become a catastrophic Category 5 storm that could bring ocean swells to the US East Coast early next week, the US national hurricane center said on Saturday.
National guard troops often respond to natural disasters and rarely police US civilians.
Drew Galang, a spokesperson for West Virginia's Morrisey, said the state's national guard received the order to send equipment and personnel to DC late on Friday and was working to organise the deployment.
A White House official said on Saturday that more national guard troops would be called in to Washington to "protect federal assets, create a safe environment for law enforcement officials to carry out their duties when required, and provide a visible presence to deter crime."
A US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said a formal order was expected to go out that would authorise national guard troops in DC to carry firearms.
The official said this order would affect mostly military police officers with sidearms. Reuters has reported that the national guard troops would have weapons nearby, such as in their vehicles.
The White House said on Saturday that DC national guard members have conducted patrols on foot and in vehicles around the National Mall and Union Station.
The White House said the National Guard troops are not making arrests now and that they may be armed.
It is not clear how the administration could deploy National Guard troops elsewhere.
A federal judge in San Francisco is expected in the coming weeks to issue a ruling on whether Trump violated the law with the Los Angeles deployments.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent decision by Republican governors from West Virginia, South Carolina, and Ohio to deploy National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., under the auspices of President Trump, raises significant concerns about the militarization of domestic law enforcement and the implications for civil liberties. This move is framed by the Trump administration as a response to a supposed crime wave in the capital. However, empirical data from the Justice Department indicates that violent crime in Washington, D.C., is at a 30-year low, shedding light on the dissonance between the administration's rhetoric and the reality on the ground. This presents a critical opportunity to discuss the historical patterns of using military forces in civilian contexts, the threats to democracy posed by such actions, and the ongoing struggles for social justice in America.
Historically, the deployment of military forces in civilian spaces has often been a tool of oppression rather than a measure of public safety. From the Reconstruction era, where federal troops were used to enforce white supremacy and suppress Black civil rights, to the National Guard's intervention during the civil rights movement, the military has frequently been implicated in actions that undermine democratic governance and community trust. When Trump asserts that he can take charge of the police departments of Democratic-led cities, it echoes a long-standing theme of conservative governance: the belief that more aggressive law enforcement is a panacea for societal issues, often at the expense of community autonomy and progressive reforms. The invocation of the National Guard in this manner is not just a tactical response to crime; it is a strategic political maneuver that seeks to portray urban areas, particularly those governed by Democrats, as inherently dangerous and in need of external control.
Local governance and the autonomy of cities are foundational principles in a healthy democracy. Mayor Muriel Bowser's pushback against the federal takeover of D.C.'s police reflects a broader struggle for self-determination among local governments, particularly those that serve diverse and historically marginalized populations. The right of cities to control their law enforcement agencies is crucial in ensuring that the needs of their communities are met, rather than being dictated by distant political leaders. Bowser's declaration that "American soldiers and airmen policing American citizens on American soil is #UnAmerican" resonates deeply with historical movements advocating for community control of police forces and against the militarization of law enforcement, which often disproportionately targets marginalized communities.
Moreover, the announcement of deploying National Guard troops coincides with a critical moment as the U.S. grapples with multifaceted crises, including climate change, economic inequality, and systemic racism. As hurricane season unfolds, with catastrophic storms like Hurricane Erin threatening communities, the very personnel that could assist in disaster relief are being redirected to maintain order in a city that has demonstrated no significant crime emergency. This diversion of resources raises questions about priorities and the effectiveness of governance. Rather than addressing the root causes of social unrest—such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, and systemic racism—this approach leans into a militaristic response that ultimately fails to provide sustainable solutions.
In conclusion, the deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., under the Trump administration not only highlights a troubling trend towards the militarization of domestic policing but also serves as a reminder of the historical struggles for local governance and community control. It is essential for advocates of social justice to draw on these historical lessons to challenge the narrative of law and order that often serves to justify authoritarian measures. The ongoing debates about policing, public safety, and community autonomy are deeply interconnected with broader struggles for equity and justice in America. As we face these challenges, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of investing in communities, fostering dialogue, and pursuing solutions that prioritize human dignity over militarized responses.
The recent decision by Republican governors from West Virginia, South Carolina, and Ohio to deploy National Guard troops to Washington D.C. exemplifies a troubling trend in American politics: the militarization of local governance and the federal overreach into state matters. This situation is compounded by the fact that the crime rate in D.C. is at a 30-year low, as backed by Justice Department data. This raises critical questions about the motivations behind such drastic actions and the implications for democracy in America. By framing the deployment as a response to crime, the Trump administration is engaging in a political maneuver that not only undermines local authority but also perpetuates a narrative of fear and chaos in urban centers, which are often portrayed as 'other' in conservative rhetoric.
Historically, the National Guard has been used as a tool for both emergency response and, at times, for the suppression of civil unrest. The deployment of military forces to quell civil disturbances can be traced back to various incidents throughout American history, from labor strikes to civil rights protests. In this case, the deployment serves a dual purpose: it aims to project an image of control and stability while simultaneously reinforcing the idea that Democratic-run cities are inherently unsafe. This narrative is particularly problematic because it diminishes the voices of local leaders like D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, who has condemned the actions as “#UnAmerican.” It signals a broader trend of undermining local governance and self-determination, which should concern every citizen who values democratic principles.
This situation prompts a call to action for Americans who are concerned about the erosion of democratic norms and the militarization of domestic law enforcement. First and foremost, it is crucial to advocate for the protection of local governance. Citizens can mobilize to support campaigns that emphasize the importance of local decision-making and oppose measures that seek to override it. Engaging in discussions with friends and community members about the implications of federal overreach can not only raise awareness but also create a collective pushback against such actions. This may include organizing town halls, writing letters to local representatives, or utilizing social media platforms to amplify the message.
In addition to defending local governance, it is essential to challenge the narrative surrounding crime in urban areas. By promoting evidence-based discussions around crime rates, social welfare, and community safety, advocates can dismantle the fear-based rhetoric that often accompanies such deployments. Educational initiatives that focus on the root causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of access to education, and systemic inequalities, can help shift the conversation from one of fear to one of understanding and reform. This also includes supporting policies that aim to invest in community resources rather than militarization, such as mental health services, housing assistance, and job training programs.
Finally, there is a pressing need for citizens to advocate for accountability and transparency in the use of National Guard troops and other federal resources. The recent deployment raises questions about the legal and ethical implications of using military forces for policing purposes. Advocating for legislation that requires oversight and limits the use of military forces in civilian settings can help safeguard democratic practices. It is crucial to ensure that any response to crime or civil unrest is rooted in community engagement and respect for civil liberties, rather than in military force or punitive measures.
In conclusion, the deployment of National Guard troops to D.C. is not merely a matter of public safety; it is a reflection of a larger political strategy that seeks to undermine local authority and perpetuate inequality. As concerned citizens, we must take action by championing local governance, challenging harmful narratives surrounding urban crime, and advocating for accountability in the use of military forces. By doing so, we can work towards a more equitable and democratic society that respects the voices of all its constituents.
The recent deployment of national guard troops from Republican-led states to Washington, D.C. raises concerns about the militarization of policing and the erosion of local governance, particularly in Democratic-led areas. Here are some actionable steps individuals can take to address this situation and advocate for a more just and equitable approach to community safety and governance.
### Personal Actions to Take:
1. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Read about the implications of military presence in civilian areas. Share articles, books, and resources that discuss the impacts of militarization on communities, particularly marginalized groups.
2. **Engage in Local Politics:** - Attend town hall meetings or local government sessions to voice concerns about the militarization of police and the need for community-led solutions to safety.
3. **Support Local Advocacy Groups:** - Contribute time or resources to organizations that advocate for police reform and community safety, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) or local grassroots organizations.
### Specific Actions to Take:
1. **Petition for Police Reform:** - Start or sign petitions that call for comprehensive police reform at the local and federal levels. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org can be platforms to create awareness. - Example Petition: "End the Militarization of Police Forces" on Change.org.
2. **Contact Elected Officials:** - Write to your local representatives, urging them to oppose the deployment of national guard troops in civilian settings and advocating for policies that prioritize community safety and well-being. - Example contacts: - **Senator Elizabeth Warren** - Email: senator_warren@warren.senate.gov - Mailing Address: 2400 JFK Federal Building, 15 New Sudbury Street, Boston, MA 02203
- **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez** - Email: info@ocasiocortez.com - Mailing Address: 144 E 21st St, New York, NY 10010
3. **Organize or Join Rallies:** - Participate in or organize rallies expressing opposition to the militarization of police forces. Use social media to gather support and raise awareness.
4. **Write Opinion Pieces:** - Consider writing letters to the editor for local newspapers or online platforms, articulating concerns about the deployment of troops and the implications for civil liberties.
### What to Say:
- **Express Your Concerns:** - "I am deeply concerned about the deployment of national guard troops to Washington D.C. This action undermines local governance and raises serious questions about the militarization of our communities. We need to prioritize community-based safety measures instead of military intervention."
- **Call for Transparency and Accountability:** - "It is imperative that our representatives ensure transparency in how safety measures are implemented and hold accountable those who seek to undermine local control in favor of military oversight."
- **Advocate for Alternatives:** - "Instead of deploying military personnel, we should invest in community programs that address the root causes of crime and support those in need, including mental health services and housing assistance."
By taking these actions, individuals can play a crucial role in advocating for a more democratic approach to governance and community safety, ensuring that the voices of the community are prioritized over militarized responses.