Memphis Mayor Reacts to National Guard Deployment Amid Crime Concerns

Sat Jun 13 2026 12:55:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Memphis Mayor Paul Young expresses mixed feelings about President Trump's announcement of National Guard deployment in response to persistent gun violence in the city.

In a recent interview, Memphis Mayor Paul Young confirmed that President Trump’s announcement about deploying the National Guard for crime-fighting in Memphis was the first official confirmation he received. While the city has seen a decrease in major crime rates this year, Young remains skeptical about the deployment's effectiveness, stating he did not request it and believes it might not reduce crime. He emphasizes the need for community-driven approaches and acknowledges the complicated history between law enforcement and Memphis residents.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Memphis Mayor Paul Young declared Saturday that the announcement made by President Donald Trump about sending the National Guard to Memphis was the first formal confirmation he had received regarding this move, aimed at fighting crime in the city.

During an appearance on CNN, Young disclosed that he had previously received hints from the office of Republican Governor Bill Lee about the potential deployment. Keeping the lines of communication open, Young sought assistance from multiple federal agencies, including the FBI and the DEA, to enhance law enforcement in Memphis.

Trump's statement on Fox News was emphatic; he described Memphis as 'deeply troubled' and insisted, 'we're going to fix that just like we did Washington.'

However, when asked if he had prior confirmation before Trump's announcement, Young stated, 'No, that was the confirmation.'

While Memphis police have reported a decrease in major crime categories, the mayor was cautious. 'I did not request the National Guard deployment,' he said, expressing doubt about its impact on crime rates. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the city's struggles with crime and its historical context, including a fraught past with law enforcement.

'It’s a complicated issue,' Young reflected, stressing that they are committed to community-focused strategies to improve public safety.

Young anticipates further discussions with state officials next week to delineate the specifics of the National Guard's role in the city, hinting at functions such as assisting with traffic during large events or monitoring public spaces for safety.

The deployment of the National Guard has a complex history, tied to both civil rights movements and emergency responses in Memphis, and Young hopes to steer its engagement in a way that reflects community needs.