The D.C. National Guard is set to enhance its presence in Washington, D.C., as part of the Trump administration's plan to bolster policing in the nation's capital. A spokesperson for the Guard confirmed on Sunday that members may be armed during their patrols, a shift from previous statements indicating that they would not carry weapons or make arrests. Army Senior Master Sgt. Craig Clapper clarified in a statement to NPR that the Guard's ability to carry weapons will align with their mission and training objectives.
The primary role of the D.C. National Guard is to support civil authorities and uphold the safety of the community. Clapper emphasized the commitment of the Guard to assist both residents and visitors in the District of Columbia whenever necessary. Earlier this month, President Trump announced a federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department, leading to the deployment of hundreds of federal law enforcement officers and National Guard members to the city.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Army confirmed that while National Guard members would not be making arrests, they would serve as a visible deterrent to crime and be equipped with personal protective gear, including body armor. The Posse Comitatus Act restricts federal armed forces from engaging in civilian law enforcement unless specifically authorized by the Constitution or an Act of Congress. However, it is worth noting that National Guard members have occasionally carried weapons in U.S. cities, such as those recently deployed to patrol the New York City transit system.
President Trump's decision to expand law enforcement in Washington, D.C. was prompted by claims that the city had been overrun by violent gangs and criminal activity. Despite these assertions, crime data reveals a 26% drop in violent crime compared to the previous year. This move has sparked significant backlash from public officials and residents who view it as an overreach of federal power. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed concerns about the city's autonomy facing unprecedented challenges.
On Saturday, hundreds of demonstrators protested against the surge in police presence. At the Asbury United Methodist Church, which serves a predominantly Black congregation, Rev. Ronald Bell Jr. addressed the congregation, highlighting the need for community leaders to guide residents in navigating interactions with National Guard members and federal agents. Bell, who experienced civil unrest during the George Floyd protests in Minnesota, expressed optimism about the community's ability to manage the current situation.
Rosa Brooks, a former Metropolitan Police Department reserve officer and current law professor at Georgetown Law School, raised concerns about the deployment of National Guard troops who lack training in everyday law enforcement. She warned that this could lead to a normalization of armed federal personnel engaging with civilians, which she described as "truly scary."
Despite the criticisms, there are supporters of the increased law enforcement presence in the District. Republican governors from West Virginia, South Carolina, and Ohio announced their plans to send additional National Guard members to assist federal forces in Washington. Since August 7, authorities have made a total of 308 arrests in the city, including 135 individuals identified as immigrants residing in the U.S. illegally, with 53 firearms also seized during this period.
White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers remarked on the effectiveness of President Trump's leadership, stating that the administration is swiftly working to enhance safety in the capital. In less than ten days, over 300 individuals deemed dangerous have been apprehended, reflecting Trump's commitment to fulfilling his campaign promise of restoring order and safety in Washington, D.C.
