National Guard Deployment in DC Extended Until February 2026
National Guard troops stationed in Washington, DC, will remain in the city until at least February 2026. This decision extends their deployment beyond the previous expectation of a November lapse.
Details of the National Guard Deployment
The extension of the deployment was confirmed by sources familiar with the orders. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth played a pivotal role in making this decision. The current mobilization is embroiled in a legal dispute between the Trump administration and the Attorney General of Washington, DC.
Current Troop Numbers
As of now, approximately 2,387 National Guard troops are mobilized in the city. These service members hail from multiple states, including:
- District of Columbia
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Ohio
- South Carolina
- West Virginia
- Georgia
- Alabama
Financial Implications
The ongoing deployment is costing around $1 million daily. Additionally, the current government shutdown has raised concerns regarding the pay and benefits for these National Guard members. Typically, service members on deployment for over 30 days qualify for benefits such as health care and housing allowances.
Mission Objectives
Initially mobilized to combat crime in the area, the troops have primarily engaged in beautification projects. Their tasks have included:
- Cleaning up public parks
- Laying down mulch
- Collecting litter
There has been considerable frustration expressed regarding the unclear timeline of their mission. Many service members have had to forgo higher-paying civilian jobs for the duration of their deployment.
Future of the Deployment
In light of these developments, officials within the Trump administration have indicated that future extensions are a possibility. Vice President JD Vance remarked that if extended mobilization is necessary for public safety, it will be pursued.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the situation remains dynamic, with potential changes on the horizon for the National Guard’s presence in Washington, DC.
