In a dramatic escalation of security measures, the National Guard is ramping up its presence in Washington, D.C., as states send additional troops to assist in a federal crackdown on crime. This morning, the Guard has begun targeting several Metro stations, including Union Station, as part of a mission that now encompasses community safety patrols and the protection of federal facilities.

The urgency of this operation is underscored by the alarming rise in crime in the nation’s capital. With over 400 arrests made in recent weeks, including a significant number of individuals in the country illegally, the pressure is mounting on local and federal authorities to restore order. The deployment follows a request from the Trump Administration, with Republican governors from states like Tennessee, West Virginia, and South Carolina sending nearly 1,000 additional troops to bolster security efforts.

As the National Guard patrols the streets and Metro stations, questions linger about their role and authority. While Mayor Muriel Bowser has emphasized that the Guard’s involvement should be limited to support functions, concerns remain regarding their potential engagement in law enforcement activities, particularly whether they will be armed during their operations. A spokesperson for the DC National Guard confirmed that troops may be armed, but further details remain scarce.

The atmosphere in D.C. is tense, with residents and visitors alike on edge amid the heightened military presence. As the situation continues to develop, the city braces for more National Guard troops to arrive, signaling a significant shift in how authorities are addressing safety concerns. Stay tuned for live updates as this story unfolds.