US EditionUS: National Guard Troops Carry Weapons in Washington, DC
Following a federal crime emergency declaration, 2,000 National Guard troops patrol D.C. streets to deter crime, with 55% of residents noticing increased federal law enforcement presence.
- On Sunday, August 24, 2025, the US National Guard started carrying service-issued firearms while on patrol in the nation's capital as part of President Trump's deployment aimed at addressing what he describes as widespread crime.
- This military escalation follows Trump's Aug. 11 order placing DC police under federal control and deploying over 2,200 Guard members amid claims of rising violence despite federal data showing a 30-year crime low.
- The Joint Task Force commander Larry Doane explained unarmed patrols provide "another set of eyes" to deter crime, while some Guard units began carrying firearms only on specific missions under strict use-of-force rules.
- A recent survey indicated that 55% of local residents observed a greater federal law enforcement presence in the city, yet only 18% reported feeling more secure; meanwhile, some community members rejected the idea that the city resembles a conflict zone and criticized the federal response.
- The deployment of troops escalated tensions and triggered protests, underscoring Trump's intention to reinforce federal control in opposition to local governments, with possible plans to extend similar actions to other Democrat-led cities such as Baltimore and Chicago.
15 Articles
15 Articles
National Guard Begins Armed Patrols in Washington, D.C. - Real News Now
The National Guard commenced armed patrols in Washington D.C., America’s hub, as part of a significant effort aimed at controlling the crime rate. This move was initiated on August 24, 2025, as announced by President Donald Trump. Notably, this new stance sees more than 2,200 soldiers actively bearing their government-issued arms. The Joint Task Force-DC, the overseeing authority of the National Guard deployment, echoed this development. The tas…
In the US capital, Washington, D.C., National Guard troops are now carrying weapons. This is happening at the behest of President Donald Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The decision is unusual: National Guard units normally do not carry weapons on domestic patrols.
The deployment of these soldiers was decided in early August by the US President, who claims that the US capital is "invaded by gangs", despite a recent decline in violent crime in the city.
Some National Guard units patrolling DC carrying arms: Pentagon says Trump gave the direction
Some National Guard units in Washington DC have begun carrying firearms on patrol at President Donald Trump’s direction, an escalation in the federal security presence in the capital, says report.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 56% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
