JACKSON, Miss. – Gov. Tate Reeves announced that he has authorized the deployment of approximately 200 Mississippi National Guard soldiers to Washington, D.C., in response to what he described as escalating crime in the nation’s capital.
“I’ve approved the deployment of approximately 200 Mississippi National Guard Soldiers to Washington, D.C., to support President Trump’s effort to return law and order to our nation’s capital,” Reeves said in a statement. “Crime is out of control there, and it’s clear something must be done to combat it. Americans deserve a safe capital city that we can all be proud of. I know the brave men and women of our National Guard will do an excellent job enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.”
The decision comes as Washington, D.C., has faced sharp criticism over violent crime trends. According to Metropolitan Police Department data, the city experienced a surge in carjackings, homicides, and robberies in 2023, prompting both local and national leaders to call for stronger measures to restore safety. While recent statistics show some crime categories declining in 2024, concerns remain about the city’s public safety challenges.
Reeves’ move also aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader push for increased law enforcement presence in high-crime areas. Trump has repeatedly highlighted crime in Washington, D.C., as emblematic of what he argues are failed urban policies, calling for a stronger federal and state response.
The Mississippi National Guard has a long history of providing both domestic and international support. In recent years, Guard members have been deployed to assist with natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornadoes, as well as to bolster border security and overseas military operations. This latest mission underscores their dual role in serving both the state and the nation.
The timeline for the deployment has not been publicly disclosed, and it remains unclear how long the Mississippi troops will remain in Washington.
