The White House has clarified that the upcoming activation of the National Guard in 19 states is not associated with President Donald Trump's initiative to address violent crime in Washington, D.C. Up to 1,700 National Guardsmen are expected to assist the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in a nationwide operation aimed at illegal immigration, separate from the crime intervention efforts in the capital.
According to a White House official, the mobilization of the National Guard is focused on providing clerical and logistical support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. This deployment, initially announced last month, includes tasks such as data collection and processing of detainees, allowing ICE agents to concentrate on enforcement.
President Trump has previously activated National Guard troops in D.C. to combat rising crime rates, resulting in over 465 arrests since the operation began. He has indicated intentions to expand this crime-fighting initiative to other cities, with Chicago and New York mentioned as potential targets. However, the White House reiterated that these two operations—the National Guard's support for ICE and the crime crackdown in D.C.—are distinct and serve different purposes.
The National Guard's current deployment operates under Title 32 authority, which permits their use in domestic situations without conflicting with the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts federal military involvement in civilian law enforcement. In D.C., the Guard operates under direct presidential command, with an increased presence at key locations throughout the city.
As preparations continue for the 250th Independence Day celebration, officials have also linked the National Guard’s activities in D.C. to broader beautification efforts. The situation remains fluid, with discussions about the potential for extended deployment and further expansion of the mission.