WASHINGTON (AP) — The Washington D.C. National Guard will be deployed to the nation's capital through the end of February, as revealed by recent formal orders. This extension follows an initial declaration made by former President Donald Trump in August, aiming to address concerns over crime and to protect federal property.
The order, dated November 4, confirms that the Guard's additional duty will continue until February 28, under directives from the Secretary of War. Since August, guardsmen have been present in the city, contributing to what Trump described as a crime-fighting mission, which also led to federal involvement in the local police department.
The situation is complex, with D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb challenging the legality of the Guard's extended presence through an ongoing lawsuit. This legal battle has seen support from 45 states, where 23 back the Trump administration's actions while 22 align with Washington, D.C.
As of now, nearly 2,000 National Guard members, including significant contributions from West Virginia and several other states, maintain a presence throughout the capital. They have been engaged not only in protective duties but also in state-led operations focusing on public beautification projects. Reports indicate that troops cleared significant amounts of waste and contributed to landscaping efforts.
Despite the ongoing decorum activities, concerns about military presence in a predominantly civilian area persist, especially given the higher stakes surrounding potential future deployments. The court case, which is seeking to limit federal military actions, serves as a backdrop to the discussion about the role of state forces in urban settings.
As many states express plans to withdraw their troops by the end of November, uncertainties remain about the timeline. The possible implications of prolonged military presence in the city and its effects on local law enforcement and community perceptions are under heightened scrutiny amidst this legal and operational framework.
