Two U.S. sources informed NBC News that certain National Guard soldiers stationed in Washington, D.C., will start carrying guns to carry out their duties there. According to one official, not every soldier will be armed.
With NBC 7, you can watch San Diego News for free, anywhere, at any time.
Since the guardsmen were initially sent to the district earlier this week, the troops’ armament represents a shift. Their mission was to combat homelessness and criminality in the capital.
According to a statement from a Joint Task Force official, guard members “may be armed consistent with their mission and training.”
“They are there to support civil authorities and make sure the community they serve is safe. Air National Guard Maj. Melissa Heintz, the spokesman, stated that the DC National Guard is still dedicated to supporting the District of Columbia and helping its citizens and guests whenever needed.
A further statement from Heintz stated that the Secretary of Defense “is authorized to mobilize additional National Guard forces, as needed, in coordination with State Governors.”
In support of the Trump administration’s intentions to increase a military presence in the nation’s capital, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said earlier Saturday that he is sending West Virginia National Guard men to Washington, D.C.
According to Morrisey’s office, the National Guard mobilization will comprise 300–400 soldiers in addition to specialized training and mission-critical equipment.
West Virginia is honored to support President Trump in his endeavor to bring back the dignity and splendor of our nation’s capital. In a statement, Republican Morrisey stated. Our shared dedication to a strong and secure America is reflected in this purpose, and the men and women of our National Guard embody the finest of our state.
According to the statement, Morrisey decided to send out his state’s National Guard in response to a request from the Trump administration. Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, the adjutant general of West Virginia, would be leading the troops.
West Virginia National Guard ordered to help with federal policing in D.C.
Trump says he’ll ask Congress for extension of D.C. police takeover
A White House spokesperson confirmed in a statement that the National Guard members had been called to D.C., stating, “The role of the National Guard has not changed. Additional National Guard troops will be called in to Washington DC as part of President Trump’s ongoing effort to make D.C. safe and beautiful.” In addition to providing a visible presence to prevent crime, the National Guard will safeguard government assets and provide a safe environment for law enforcement personnel to do their duties as necessary.
The governor’s action follows President Donald Trump’s announcement a few days ago that he would send 800 National Guard personnel to D.C. and instruct federal law enforcement officers to help local police patrol the city and carry out warrants.
“You’re going to see police or FBI agents when you walk down the street,” Trump told reporters on Monday. There will be a large number of agents on the street. There will be a lot of them, basically military. And if necessary, we will deploy the military.
Trump’s declared goal of reducing crime in Washington coincides with the city’s crime rates being at their lowest points in decades.
As local and federal law enforcement established checkpoints in areas throughout the city, Washington residents almost immediately noticed an increase in the presence of law enforcement on the streets.
The enhanced military and law enforcement presence in tourist hotspots like Union Station and the National Mall was also noted by locals and visitors.
After the city sued the Trump administration, Attorney General Pam Bondi initially attempted to seize control of the Metropolitan Police Department but later changed her mind. Chief Pamela Smith continues to oversee the city’s police force on a daily basis.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries referred to the president’s decision earlier this week as illegitimate and an unwarranted power grab, and Democrats have blasted it.
Contributions were made by Raquel Coronell Uribe.
