Trump Extends National Guard Deployment in DC Through 2029

The Department of Defense extended the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., through January 20, 2029, coinciding with the end of Donald Trump's second term. Originally initiated in August 2025 following a declared crime emergency, the force expanded from 800 to 5,148 troops from more than 20 states as part of a summer surge to support America 250 celebrations. These troops are deputized as special police by the U.S. Marshals Service to conduct patrols in residential and business districts until law and order is restored.

President Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth describe the mission as a success, with some data indicating a 20% decrease in overall crime. However, the mission faces intense opposition from D.C. Council members and residents who argue the presence violates home rule. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb has filed legal challenges to remove the troops, and some Democratic governors have announced troop withdrawals.

Financial critics highlight the high cost of the operation. The Congressional Budget Office estimates expenses at over $3 million per day, while the Project on Government Oversight predicts a total cost between $2.5 billion and $3.4 billion through 2029. Other critics note that violent crime had already hit a 30-year low before the deployment began.