Former President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he will send National Guard troops to Memphis, framing the move as part of his broader strategy to combat crime in Democratic-led cities.
Speaking on Fox & Friends, Trump described the situation in Memphis as “deeply troubled” and pledged a robust federal response. He said the deployment could expand beyond the National Guard if necessary, even including military support.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young confirmed earlier this week that the White House had discussed possible federal intervention. However, he had requested financial assistance for prevention programs rather than military presence. Despite this, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Senator Marsha Blackburn, both Republicans, welcomed Trump’s decision, praising it as a step toward restoring safety.
The deployment will align with Operation Viper, an ongoing FBI-led initiative in Memphis that has already arrested hundreds of violent offenders. Trump has previously sent the National Guard to cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., and has threatened similar action in other Democratic-run cities including Chicago and Baltimore.