Hegseth approves 60 patrol cars for DC Guard
The War Department signed off on additional vehicles and maritime assets for troops deployed to the capital on Oct. 29.
By Leah Thompson ·
National Guard troops stationed in Washington, D.C., received approval on Oct. 29 to operate up to 60 marked patrol cars, Humvees, and boats. The authorization also permits the use of 20 light towers and generators to support local law enforcement.
Two Pentagon officials confirmed that War Secretary Pete Hegseth signed the memo expanding the operational capabilities of the force. Approximately 3,000 National Guard troops are currently deployed in the capital as part of a federal crime initiative.
A War Department official stated that the guidance supports the "Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission." The order allows for the use of military tactical vehicles and maritime assets alongside federal and local police units.
The expansion follows a decision by Hegseth last year that permitted Guard troops to carry service-issued weapons when mission requirements dictated. The new vehicle authorization adds marked police cars to the existing inventory of military hardware in the district.
Local leaders reacted to the deployment during a hearing held Thursday by D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto. Pinto chairs the council's public safety committee and examined the federal presence in the area. She described the military presence as unnecessary, harmful, and unlawful.
Pinto called on newly elected Democratic governors in Georgia, Iowa, Nevada, Ohio, and Texas to withdraw 628 troops from their states. She urged congressional Democrats to increase oversight of federal law enforcement in January, including rules for identifying badges and body cameras.
