In response to a declared public safety emergency, three Republican states are mobilizing National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., where local residents are voicing opposition through protests. As crime rates show a decline, tensions rise between state and city governments on public safety narratives.
National Guard Deployment to DC Sparks Protests Amid Controversy
National Guard Deployment to DC Sparks Protests Amid Controversy
Three Republican-led states are sending National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., as President Trump claims a public safety emergency amidst rising tensions with local officials and residents.
Three Republican-led states have announced their decision to dispatch members of the National Guard to Washington, D.C. to reinforce approximately 800 troops already present following President Trump’s declaration of a "public safety emergency." West Virginia’s Governor Patrick Morrisey indicated that 300-400 National Guard troops will be sent at Trump’s request. South Carolina will contribute 200 troops, and Ohio will provide 150 military police personnel.
This deployment has come despite the protests from Washington D.C.’s elected officials, who argue against Trump’s characterization of the nation’s capital as experiencing “complete and total lawlessness.” Over the weekend, hundreds of residents protested in the streets of D.C., demonstrating against the Trump administration’s enforcement policies. Marchers gathered in Dupont Circle, expressing their opposition with chants of “Free DC!” along with drums and bells.
While some surveys indicate concerns about crime among D.C. residents, Mayor Muriel Bowser disputes Trump’s claims of rampant crime. She acknowledged a temporary spike in crime back in 2023; however, data from the Metropolitan Police Department shows a significant drop in homicides by 32% between 2023 and 2024, reaching the lowest levels since 2019. Current figures for 2025 indicate a 26% decrease in overall violent crime compared to the same period in 2024.
Initially, the Trump administration attempted to assume control of the Metropolitan Police Department through the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, but withdrew the order when confronted by city officials in court. A ruling by Judge Ana Reyes confirmed that while the administration holds some oversight, local leaders like Mayor Bowser maintain operational command.
