Mobilization of National Guard troops in 19 states due to increased focus on immigration and crime enforcement
The United States National Guard is set to deploy troops across 20 states as part of a nationwide campaign against illegal immigration and crime, led by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under President Donald Trump.
Starting from the first week of September, operations will commence in Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, and Nevada. The largest deployment will take place in Texas, particularly near the US-Mexico border at Fort Bliss, with about 1,700 troops expected to be involved. This mobilization, which will last from August to mid-November 2025, also includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wyoming.
The National Guard soldiers will provide support to a sweeping federal interagency effort and serve as a visible deterrent force. In contrast, the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. is distinct from the missions in the 19 states, focusing on maintaining a visible security presence and deterring crime around the city.
Up to 2,000 National Guard soldiers from Washington, D.C., and six states have already been deployed. These troops, under the authorization of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, can now carry weapons if needed for their individual tasks. However, it's important to note that the National Guard members will not conduct law enforcement functions or make arrests.
In Virginia, approximately 60 soldiers and airmen will begin training in late August to begin duty by early September. Meanwhile, Vermont has declined to activate its National Guardsmen, despite authorization from the Pentagon to assist the DHS-ICE Interior Enforcement Mission.
The operation in Washington, D.C. is also linked to beautification efforts ahead of next year's 250th Independence Day celebration. Contrary to speculation, the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. is not tied to the President's efforts to address violent crime in D.C., according to a White House official.
President Trump has indicated intentions to expand the operation to other cities, including Chicago and New York. Fewer than 2% of the authorized forces have mobilized so far, but missions coordinated under state governors are projected to expand in the coming weeks.
The deployment of National Guard troops will allow the U.S. military to provide a more direct role in supporting federal immigration enforcement. Service members supporting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be performing case management, transportation, logistical support, and clerical functions associated with the processing of illegal migrants at facilities.
This nationwide mobilization of the National Guard is a significant step in President Trump's commitment to enhancing public safety and addressing illegal immigration.
