Trump Asks West Virginia for National Guard Troops
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced Saturday that between 300 and 400 members of the state’s National Guard will be deployed to Washington, DC, in response to a request from President Trump. The deployment is intended to support federal efforts to bolster security in the nation’s capital.
“West Virginia is proud to stand with President Trump in his effort to restore pride and beauty to our nation’s capital,” said Morrisey, a Republican, in a statement reported by The Washington Post.
According to administration officials, the Guard members will assist in protecting federal property, supporting law enforcement, and acting as a visible deterrent to criminal activity. The White House emphasized that the role of the National Guard remains unchanged and is focused on creating a secure environment for law enforcement personnel.
The Trump administration has cited public safety concerns as the reason for the increased military presence, although reports show that violent crime in Washington, DC, has declined since 2023.
So far, 800 National Guard troops from DC—who can be activated directly by the president—are already deployed in the city, according to The New York Times. Typically, state governors control their respective National Guard units. However, President Trump bypassed that authority in a recent deployment to Los Angeles, a move that is currently under review in federal court. A judge has already ordered modifications to the administration’s plans regarding control of DC police forces.
Details about when the West Virginia troops will arrive, their specific assignments, and whether other states will contribute additional forces have not yet been released. The federal government will cover the cost of the deployment, and West Virginia Guard members will receive equipment and training prior to their mission.
Meanwhile, protests took place Saturday at the White House and in Dupont Circle, where demonstrators voiced opposition to the military buildup. Signs read “Trump must go now” and “No ICE! No National Guard!”
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