Earlier this week, on Wednesday, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot and critically injured near the White House. This event has raised legitimate questions over security in the nation’s capital. A recent incident outside the Farragut West metro station has captured national outrage. It shines a light on the continued deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. — a deployment that’s been extended time and again since it started in August.
The National Guard was deployed after Donald Trump’s administration declared a “crime emergency.” With Washington seeing about 2,375 active-duty troops—at the peak—put on its streets, the deployment was billed as assistance to federal and D.C. local law enforcement. The last few months have darkened this crucial operation with uncertainty. A federal judge ruled that the deployment was illegal. Nevertheless, this ruling is still stayed for 21 days while the administration considers whether to appeal.
Even with this judicial decision, the National Guard will stay put during this interim period. Now extended to at least February 2026, the extended deployment has raised concerns about its legality and purpose.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has confirmed they currently have one suspect in custody. They’ve won the narrative of the shooting. Following the collision, MPD tweeted at the public to “Please avoid the area. More information shortly.”
The shooting about a block from Washington HQ has drawn firm condemnation from top officials. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem released her support and condolences for those soldiers involved in the unfortunate tragedy.
“Please join me in praying for the two National Guardsmen who were just shot moments ago in Washington DC.” – Kristi Noem
The shooting highlights the long-standing social problems and frustrations that continue to plague police and active duty military officers in the city. Relevant authorities are still making their way through the fallout from this harrowing incident. They need to address the impact of the court ruling that cast doubt on the National Guard’s role.