The National Guard's presence in Washington, D.C., is set to expand under Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, with the deployment of 60 vehicles and military boats aimed at enhancing patrols. This decision, made on October 29, comes as part of efforts to address drug and gang crime and will continue until January 2029. Currently, around 3,000 National Guard troops are stationed in the capital, with local lawmakers urging troop withdrawals from newly elected Democratic governors. Mayor Muriel Bowser has cooperated with the Trump administration, while Mayor-elect Janeese Lewis George has indicated a willingness to work for the benefit of D.C. residents.
Key facts
- Hegseth authorized the deployment on October 29, 2026.
- 60 vehicles, including police cars and Humvees, will be deployed.
- Approximately 3,000 National Guard troops are stationed in D.C.
- The deployment aims to combat drug and gang crime.
- The National Guard presence will last until January 2029.
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