After a request from President Donald Trump, West Virginia is sending between 300 and 400 National Guard personnel to Washington, D.C., to assist with the federal takeover of the city’s police department.
Earlier this week, Trump activated hundreds of District of Columbia National Guard troops to back up local law enforcement, calling the situation a “crime emergency” in the U.S. capital. The administration also deployed 800 National Guard troops to the district, alleging a surge in crime rates.
Governor Patrick Morrisey Confirms Deployment
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced the decision on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“At the request of the Trump administration, I have directed the @WVNationalGuard to support the President’s initiative to make D.C. safe and beautiful. We are deploying 300-400 skilled personnel to the nation’s capital, reflecting our commitment to a strong and secure America.”
Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, the state’s adjutant general, echoed this sentiment, saying West Virginia was prepared to assist:
“The National Guard’s unique capabilities and preparedness make it an invaluable partner in this important undertaking.”
West Virginia Governor says he’s deploying WV National Guard to Washington DC
He says they’ll be “providing mission-essential equipment, specialized training, and approximately 300-400 skilled personnel as directed. The mission will be funded at the federal level.” pic.twitter.com/JusE56a2tQ
— Scott MacFarlane (@MacFarlaneNews) August 16, 2025
DC Pushes Back Against Federal Takeover
In response, the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s move to assume control over its police department. This came after a federal official was appointed as the emergency head of the DC police, effectively replacing the current chief.
DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb strongly criticized the decision, stating:
“The administration’s unlawful actions are an affront to the dignity and autonomy of the 700,000 Americans who call D.C. home. This is the gravest threat to Home Rule that the District has ever faced, and we are fighting to stop it.”
Schwalb requested an emergency restraining order, arguing that the President had exceeded his legal authority.
