Some of the National Guard troops deployed to Washington, D.C. as part of the Trump administration’s recent crackdown on crime have now been authorized to carry firearms, marking a significant shift in their role during the mission.
What Changed
- Certain units within the D.C. National Guard, assigned to Joint Task Force–D.C., are now carrying their standard-issue M17 pistols while on duty.
- The authorization was approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in coordination with local and federal law enforcement agencies.
- Troops granted this authority will operate under strict rules of engagement, with weapons intended primarily for self-defense rather than direct policing.
How It Will Work
- Guard members involved in patrol and security roles may be armed, while those performing administrative or logistical tasks will not carry weapons.
- Officials have emphasized that the troops will follow de-escalation protocols and remain under military command, supporting but not replacing civilian law enforcement.
Background
- Nearly 2,300 Guard members have been mobilized in Washington, D.C. following the president’s declaration of a crime emergency.
- Their responsibilities include supporting patrols in high-traffic public areas, monitoring transit hubs, and providing security around federal buildings.
Reactions
- Supporters argue that arming some Guard troops will help deter violent crime and boost public confidence in safety.
- Critics, including several local officials, have expressed concerns about militarization, questioning whether deploying armed troops on city streets infringes on civil liberties.
Why It Matters
The move reflects one of the most visible escalations in the federal government’s response to crime in the capital. It underscores ongoing debates about how far the National Guard should be involved in civilian security and how to balance safety with constitutional rights.