URGENT UPDATE: Armed members of the National Guard have begun patrolling the streets of Washington, D.C., marking a significant escalation in federal law enforcement presence. This development comes as President Donald Trump has deployed thousands of federal officers to the capital and threatened to extend similar actions to cities like Baltimore, Chicago, and New York.
For the first time on October 22, 2023, National Guard soldiers were seen carrying weapons while conducting patrols, particularly outside Union Station. Photos from the Associated Press show armed members from the South Carolina National Guard keeping watch in the area.
“There’s just no substitute for having law enforcement visible,” stated Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), emphasizing the need for a strong police presence to deter crime and homelessness. The newly formed task force responsible for this operation has indicated that the use of force will be “only as a last resort.”
President Trump has expressed intentions to surge federal troops into other Democrat-run cities, stating that such measures are necessary to combat crime. However, Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, condemned these actions as unconstitutional and a violation of the 10th Amendment.
In a broader context, Trump has also threatened to employ federal law enforcement against his critics, particularly those who speak out against him on television. This follows a recent FBI raid on the home of former national security advisor John Bolton, who has been a vocal critic of Trump. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) characterized these actions as “clearly retribution.”
The situation is rapidly evolving, and the implications of these developments are significant not just for D.C. but for cities across the nation. As tensions rise, the administration’s next moves will be crucial to watch.
As this story develops, residents and officials alike are bracing for the potential impact of increased federal presence in their communities. Stay tuned for updates as we gather more information on this urgent situation.
