WASHINGTON (AP) – Members of the West Virginia State Guard are The capital of the country As part of the Trump administration’s efforts to overhaul policing in the District of Columbia through federal crackdowns on crime and homelessness.
RW.Va. Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced Saturday that he was sending between 300 and 400 members of the state’s National Guard to nearby Washington, at the request of the Republican administration. His office said in a statement that they will arrive in the District of Columbia with equipment and professional training services.
“West Virginia is proud to be with President Trump to regain pride and beauty in our nation’s capital,” Morrissey said. “The men and women of our National Guard represent the best of our nation, and this mission reflects our common commitment to a strong and safe America.”
The move comes as federal agents and the National Guard began to appear in heavy Democratic cities after Trump’s executive order frumped local police and revitalized about 800 DC National Guard troops for his plans.
Major General James Seward, vice-commander of West Virginia, said in a statement that the members of the state guards are “ready to support partners in the national capital region,” and that the security guards’ “unique capabilities and preparation will make them invaluable partners in this important job.”
Federal agents have appeared in some of the city’s most trafficked areas, garnering praise, pushbacks and warnings from local residents and leaders across the country.
City leaders who are obligated to cooperate with the president’s orders under federal laws that direct local governance in the district, although bristled to the scope of the president’s acquisition, have tried to cooperate with the administration.
