Gov. Jeff Landry Seeks Pentagon Support for Louisiana Guard Activation
URGENT UPDATE: Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has just requested federal support to activate up to 1,000 members of the Louisiana National Guard for a year, a move aimed at combating escalating crime rates across the state. In a letter sent to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday evening, Landry highlights a critical need for military assistance in addressing the alarming levels of violence in urban centers like Shreveport, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans.
Governor Landry’s appeal draws upon the “successful model” established during the Trump administration, which saw military deployments in cities like Washington, D.C., and Memphis, Tennessee. In his letter, he points out that local law enforcement is struggling with personnel shortages, severely hampering their ability to tackle issues such as homicide, carjacking, and gang-related violence that far exceed national averages.
The governor’s request seeks federal support through the end of fiscal year 2026, specifically until September 30, 2026. His proposed mission for the National Guard includes deploying troops to high-crime areas to bolster police presence, provide logistical support, and secure critical infrastructure.
Landry emphasized that all operations will adhere to established rules for the use of force and will prioritize community outreach to maintain public trust.
This request arrives as the Tennessee National Guard prepares to deploy to Memphis, with similar conditions where troops will not carry weapons nor make arrests unless requested by local law enforcement, according to reports by the Tennessee Lookout.
Former President Donald Trump has recently suggested a broader military deployment across the U.S., mentioning cities including Chicago, Baltimore, and New Orleans. Landry has openly supported Trump’s proposals, expressing a keen interest in federal help to restore safety in Louisiana cities.
Earlier this month, Trump noted in a press conference that he was considering deploying military resources to either Chicago or New Orleans, highlighting Landry’s readiness to collaborate. “We have a great governor, Jeff Landry, who wants us to come in and straighten out a very nice section of this country that’s become quite tough,” Trump remarked.
This developing story underscores the urgent need for action as Louisiana grapples with rising violent crime. The situation is fluid, and further updates will follow as new information emerges.
As law enforcement agencies await federal assistance, the community’s safety hangs in the balance, and the implications of Landry’s request will be closely monitored in the coming days. Stay tuned for more updates.
