States Send Hundreds of National Guard Troops to Washington, D.C., to Support Crime and Homelessness Initiatives

Three states controlled by Republicans are deploying a total of 750 National Guard personnel to the nation’s capital in response to efforts to address crime and homelessness. West Virginia will send up to 400 troops, South Carolina 200, and Ohio 150 in the coming days.

West Virginia’s governor, Patrick Morrisey, expressed pride in supporting initiatives aimed at restoring pride and order to Washington, D.C., emphasizing a shared commitment to national security.

South Carolina announced its deployment of 200 troops, which could be recalled in case of major emergencies like hurricanes. The move aligns with efforts to re-establish law and order, following a request from the Pentagon’s National Guard Bureau.

Ohio’s governor, Mike DeWine, revealed plans to send 150 military police to assist the D.C. National Guard by conducting patrols and bolstering security, noting that none of the Ohio troops are currently law enforcement officers.

The increased military presence comes amid ongoing protests in the city, with demonstrators seen holding signs and marching against various issues.

With the addition of the three states’ troops, over 1,450 National Guard personnel are now stationed across Washington, D.C. While their presence has been limited so far, members have been patrolling key landmarks such as the National Mall and Union Station, and assisting law enforcement with crowd management.