National Guard armed in Washington as Trump extends crime crackdown

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., to be armed, as the Trump administration continues its controversial crime crackdown in the capital.

Earlier this month, President Trump deployed roughly 2,000 National Guard personnel to Washington, D.C., taking operational control of the city’s police forces to address what he described as “out of control” crime. Initially unarmed, the troops will now carry service-issued weapons, according to the Pentagon.

While their presence has been praised by the administration, polls show strong opposition from residents, with nearly 80% disapproving of both the federal deployment and the takeover of local law enforcement.

So far, National Guard members have not conducted law enforcement operations, instead stationed near landmarks such as the National Mall and Union Station.

Trump has suggested expanding the mission to other Democratic-led cities like Chicago and is considering declaring a national emergency to extend troop deployments.

The operation has already resulted in more than 700 arrests and the seizure of 91 illegal firearms, according to Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Local officials and mayors have expressed concerns about federal intervention and its potential to inflame tensions.

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