National Guard Units Armed in Washington Amid Expanded Military Deployment Plans

President Donald Trump has authorized some National Guard units deployed in Washington, D.C., to carry firearms, including handguns and rifles, under strict use-of-force protocols aimed at self-defense amid his federal intervention in the city. This escalation follows Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's directive and includes troops patrolling to establish a law enforcement presence, while others in administrative roles remain unarmed. The deployment began with about 800 National Guard members in August, citing a 'crime emergency' despite statistics showing a 30-year low in violent crime, and now involves thousands of personnel, including reinforcements from Republican-led states. Trump's efforts to federalize local policing have drawn protests and criticism from civil rights groups, local residents, and advocacy organizations, who warn that arming troops risks escalating tensions and endangers public safety. Trump has also threatened to expand similar deployments to other Democratic-led cities like Chicago, Baltimore, and New York, further intensifying the controversy surrounding his approach to law enforcement. Critics argue that the military presence in civilian areas is inappropriate and that more weapons on the streets will not reduce crime but potentially exacerbate risks.