The National Guard in Washington, DC, began carrying weapons on Sunday August 24, 2025, as part of President Donald Trump’s anti-crime initiative, with a spokesperson warning that “detentions may occur leading to arrests", signalling a deeper military role in the federal takeover of the city’s policing.

Joint Task Force-DC announced that Guard members, including over 1,900 troops from Washington, DC, and six Republican-led states—West Virginia, South Carolina, Mississippi, Ohio, Louisiana, and Tennessee—are now equipped with standard-issue weapons, such as M4 carbine rifles and M17 pistols. “The National Guard is committed to public safety,” the task force stated, noting that use of force is permitted only as a last resort in response to imminent threats of death or serious harm.

On August 24, Guard members were observed at Union Station with visible sidearms, following authorization from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The deployment, which began August 11, supports local and federal law enforcement in patrolling monuments, checkpoints, and traffic stops across all eight wards of the city.

The initiative has led to over 600 arrests, including 251 for immigration violations, since its start, according to White House reports.

Supporters of the armed deployment argue it deters crime, while critics, including Mayor Muriel Bowser, call it an overreach, noting violent crime has dropped 26% in 2025.

The move has sparked protests, with some residents decrying it as political theater. The Guard’s role is set to continue until at least September 25, with potential extensions under review.