Former US President Donald Trump has called for the National Guard to remain deployed in Washington DC, citing a sharp rise in crime rates across the capital. The controversial suggestion has reignited debates over public safety and federal intervention in urban policing.
Crime Wave Prompts Unusual Request
In an unexpected move, Trump publicly urged authorities to extend the National Guard's presence in the nation's capital, arguing that escalating criminal activity demands immediate action. "The streets aren't safe anymore," the former president claimed, pointing to recent crime statistics showing significant increases in violent offences.
Political Reactions Divided
The proposal has drawn mixed reactions from policymakers. Some conservative leaders have backed Trump's stance, while progressive lawmakers argue that militarized responses fail to address root causes of crime. "We need community solutions, not soldiers on our streets," countered one Democratic representative.
National Guard's Current Role
The National Guard has maintained a visible presence in DC since the January 6th Capitol riots, primarily assisting with security at federal buildings and major events. An extension would mark an unprecedented peacetime deployment for domestic crime prevention.
Crime Statistics Under Scrutiny
Recent police data reveals a 23% year-on-year increase in violent crimes across Washington DC, with carjackings and armed robberies showing particularly alarming spikes. Law enforcement officials acknowledge the concerning trend but remain divided on appropriate responses.
As the debate continues, residents express growing anxiety about public safety while civil liberties groups warn against normalizing military presence in civilian spaces. The DC mayor's office has yet to issue an official response to Trump's proposal.
