Trump to Deploy National Guard to Memphis Amid Crime Concerns

Tue Oct 21 2025 04:58:36 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

President Trump announces plans to send National Guard troops to Memphis, Tennessee, to tackle crime, raising questions about presidential power and local authority.

In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump stated he will deploy the National Guard to Memphis, Tennessee, to combat crime issues despite a dissenting view from the city's mayor. While the Tennessee governor supports the move, local officials express concerns over the effectiveness and legality of military involvement in civilian law enforcement. Memphis has seen recent decreases in crime, leading to debates on whether this action is necessary or politically motivated.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — President Donald Trump revealed on Friday his intention to send the National Guard to Memphis, Tennessee, sparked by rising crime rates. In a segment on Fox News, Trump asserted that local leaders were supportive of his decision, labeling Memphis as a deeply troubled city, and comparing the situation to previous deployments in Washington.

However, Memphis Mayor Paul Young contradicted Trump’s claims, stating he did not request the National Guard and doubted its effectiveness in reducing crime. Meanwhile, Governor Bill Lee expressed his backing, confirming the deployment and indicating collaboration with local law enforcement.

This move comes as crime in Memphis has reportedly decreased across various categories in recent months, contradicting the urgency of the National Guard's presence. Despite an overall decline in crime statistics, the city has faced persistent issues with gun violence and high-profile incidents in recent years, raising concerns among local officials about the disruptive implications of military involvement in policing.

Critics, including Democratic leaders, argue that deploying troops undermines the authority of local law enforcement and exacerbates tension within communities. In contrast, some Republicans support the idea, suggesting the National Guard could offer logistical support while local officers focus on policing.

The legal implications of this deployment remain unclear, prompting discussions on whether it aligns with constitutional guidelines regarding military actions in civilian scenarios.

In summary, President Trump’s decision to send the National Guard to Memphis appears driven by political motivations rather than urgent public safety needs, igniting debate over civilian governance and the role of military force in American cities.