Trump-dispatched National Guard forces in Washington are now armed and ready

Military presence, deployed by Trump, in Washington now equipped with weapons - Armed National Guard of Trump Deployed in Washington D.C.

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has deployed the National Guard to several Democratic-led cities, sparking debate and concerns about the expansion of power and right-wing populist agitation.

The recent developments began with the President's justification of an alleged security "emergency" in Washington, which led to the deployment of the National Guard in the city. According to reports from The New York Times, National Guard members from South Carolina were armed and positioned at Union Station late Sunday evening. However, weapons are available for the National Guard members if needed, but they are expected to remain in armories.

The District of Columbia (DC) currently hosts over 1900 National Guard members from Washington and several other states, including Ohio, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. These National Guard members patrol around the White House, on the Mall between the Capitol and Lincoln Memorial, and in train stations and metro stations in Washington. A CNN reporter observed two National Guard members armed with long firearms in Washington's The Wharf area.

Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard is not limited to Washington. He has announced plans to send federal security forces to the Democratic-run metropolises of Chicago and New York. However, the specific names of the National Guard units from the states of Illinois (Chicago) and New York have not been disclosed in the available sources.

The President's actions have been met with criticism, with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries telling CNN that deploying the National Guard in Chicago lacks "any legal basis or authority." The concerns are further fuelled by Trump's repeated attempts to expand his power by sowing chaos and controlling cities run by Democrats.

In June, Trump mobilized the National Guard and Marine Corps to end protests against his immigration policy in Los Angeles. The National Guard members in Washington are permitted to use force only as a last resort and in response to an immediate threat to life, according to the Joint Task Force DC.

As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial to maintain a clear understanding of the facts and the potential implications of these actions on American democracy. The deployment of the National Guard in Democratic-led cities raises questions about the President's motives and the legality of his actions. The situation is dynamic and ongoing, and it is essential to stay informed and vigilant.