National Guard deployed in Washington DC amid capital crime crackdown: What is it and who can join them?

President Donald Trump Monday announced a historic escalation of law enforcement in Washington DC, deploying both the National Guard to patrol the streets and placing the city’s police department under federal control. The move comes after Trump ordered a seven-day surge in federal law enforcement within the city last week, pointing to several high-profile crimes.

“We’re going to clean it up real quick,” Trump told reporters at the White House, noting the high crime rate in the city and the recent attack of a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer by 10 teens Aug. 3.

“It’s becoming a situation of complete and total lawlessness, and we get rid of the slums too,” Trump went on.


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What is US National Guard and how is it deployed?

The National Guard is part of the US Armed Forces Reserve, and consists of two branches: The Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. It was formed in 1903 by the Militia Act. US federal law determines the current structure of the National Guard.

The National Guard has a broad range of responsibilities, from assisting in domestic emergencies to supporting military missions overseas. It is frequently called upon for disaster relief — most recently in January 2025, when its units were deployed to battle the catastrophic forest fires in California. In 2005, after Hurricane Katrina struck, more than 50,000 members were sent to New Orleans to aid evacuations, conduct rescues, and help restore order.

Beyond disaster response, the Guard also plays a key role in maintaining internal security. Following the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, over 25,000 National Guard troops were stationed across Washington, D.C., to safeguard the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Similarly, during the nationwide protests after the death of George Floyd in 2020, thousands of troops were mobilized in multiple states to reinforce local law enforcement.

The Guard’s mission extends far beyond U.S. borders as well. Its personnel have supported combat and peacekeeping operations overseas, including deployments to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Who has control over National Guard?

The president has direct control over DC’s National Guard, unlike every other unit, which is under the authority of state governors. Under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973, Trump has the authority to use the DC Metropolitan Police Department for federal purposes for 30 days.

According to DW, when reservists are deployed inside the US states, the governor of the state in question usually assumes command. When deployed nationwide, the US president is the commander-in-chief.

Who can join the National Guard?

In principle, all US citizens are eligible to join the National Guard. However, they must meet certain physical, mental and legal requirements. Most National Guard members serve in the units on a part-time basis, but there is also a minority of full-time soldiers.

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Soldiers who have completed military service in the army can apply to serve in the National Guard. They usually do not require any further training.

Another option is voluntary enlistment for exclusive service in the National Guard without serving in active units. In this case, training is completed at a military facility.

Typical duties of a National Guard member include one weekend per month and two weeks per year. National Guard members receive between $200 and $600 (€175-€525) for weekend duty, depending on their rank. They also have allowances for accommodation and meals, education assistance and health insurance. Pension entitlements can also be claimed for longer periods of service.