National Guard Units Armed in D.C. as Trump Targets More Cities
UPDATE: In a significant escalation, some National Guard units in Washington D.C. have begun carrying firearms as President Donald Trump intensifies his military deployment in response to rising tensions. This development comes just days after directives from the Pentagon were issued, authorizing armed patrols in the nation’s capital.
Starting Sunday, September 24, 2023, select National Guard units were seen armed with handguns and rifles while stationed around key locations, including Union Station. An official from the Defense Department confirmed that all personnel carrying weapons have undergone rigorous training and adhere to strict rules of engagement, emphasizing that lethal force should only be utilized in life-threatening situations.
The move marks a dramatic shift in Trump’s strategy to assert federal control over crime in major cities, with plans reportedly in motion to extend military presence to Baltimore, Chicago, and New York. Earlier, Trump threatened to “send in the troops” to these cities, igniting fierce backlash from local leaders.
In a contentious exchange with Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Trump claimed he might deploy troops to Baltimore. Moore responded, highlighting the city’s improved crime statistics, with 200 homicides reported last year, a 24% decrease from the previous year. Moore criticized Trump for spreading misinformation about crime rates in Maryland, stating, “The president is spending all of his time talking about me. I’m spending my time talking about the people I serve.”
Amid Trump’s military maneuvers, protests erupted across D.C. over the weekend. Residents have expressed concern over the increased military presence, with some claiming it exacerbates tensions and raises civil rights issues. The Rev. Al Sharpton characterized the deployment as “laced with bigotry and racism,” urging for a reassessment of how law enforcement is being utilized in minority communities.
In Chicago, local leaders including Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson have voiced strong opposition to any potential military intervention, labeling it unnecessary and a politicization of public safety. Pritzker declared, “Donald Trump is attempting to manufacture a crisis,” while Johnson affirmed that “the city of Chicago has a long history of standing up against tyranny.”
As Trump continues to target Democratic-led cities for military deployment, officials warn that this strategy could further deepen divisions and escalate tensions across the nation. The White House has indicated that discussions around military support for urban areas are ongoing, with Trump stating, “I think Chicago will be our next.”
As this situation develops, citizens across the affected regions are urged to stay informed about the implications of increased military presence and the evolving political landscape. The urgency of these actions resonates deeply, prompting discussions about the role of federal authority in local governance and community safety.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as we monitor the impacts of military deployments in U.S. cities.
