National Guard Troops in D.C. to Start Carrying Firearms: What This Means for Safety and Security

National Guard Troops to Carry Firearms in D.C.

The National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., will start carrying firearms beginning Sunday evening. This change comes as part of an effort to address crime in the area.

Most of these guards will be armed with M17 pistols, while a few will have M4 rifles. They are authorized to use their weapons only for self-defense. This marks a significant shift, as they had been unarmed while helping with community safety and traffic control.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed around 2,000 troops to carry weapons. They had previously assisted law enforcement without firearms. The Army assures that these troops have received thorough training and meet annual qualifications for weapon handling.

Even though they will be armed, the guards will not make arrests. Their focus remains on protecting federal assets and supporting law enforcement.

Over 2,200 National Guard members, mostly from out of state, have been deployed to D.C. to tackle crime and homelessness. Interestingly, D.C. police data shows violent crime has dropped around 27% compared to last year.

However, this deployment has sparked criticism, especially from Democrats. They argue that President Trump is using the situation for political gain, targeting cities with Black leadership. Trump has even suggested sending military support to other cities like Baltimore, indicating a broader approach to crime control.

Deploying the National Guard in urban settings is rare. Typically, they respond to natural disasters or civil unrest. This approach raises questions about the use of military resources in domestic issues.

Recent surveys show that many Americans are divided on the presence of military forces in urban areas. While some feel safer, others worry about militarizing local law enforcement.

For context, in the 1960s, the National Guard was notably deployed during civil rights demonstrations. The response to crime today parallels some historical events but showcases a different political landscape.

As this narrative unfolds, the impact of the guards’ presence, both in terms of safety and community relations, will be closely watched.

For more in-depth information, you can refer to the D.C. police data on crime statistics here.

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