US Department of Defense Deploys National Guard to Washington DC to Respond to Pro-Trump Protests

Confirmed Date for 46th President, Trump Supporters Announce 'Protest if Unaccepted'
Trump Tweets on New Year's Day "Large-Scale Protest on the 6th"
Mayor Muriel Bowser "Will Not Tolerate Violence by Protesters"

On the 12th of last month (local time), supporters of President Donald Trump held a large rally at Freedom Plaza in Washington DC to contest the election results. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] Military forces will be deployed in Washington DC on the day the U.S. Congress certifies the presidential election winner. With large-scale 'election refusal' protests expected, the U.S. Department of Defense has agreed to deploy the National Guard at the request of Washington DC and prepare for potential violence.

According to CNN and others on the 4th (local time), a Department of Defense official stated, "Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller approved Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser's request to deploy the National Guard." On the 6th, the U.S. Congress will officially count the electoral votes and confirm the 46th president at the Washington DC Capitol.

On that day, groups supporting President Donald Trump have announced plans for large-scale protests around the Capitol, increasing anxiety among local residents. Trump supporters claim the election was 'fraudulent.'

Earlier, Mayor Bowser requested Washington DC National Guard Commander William Walker to deploy the National Guard locally, citing "large-scale violence and criminal acts during protests late last year." Since Washington DC is not a state, the mayor does not have command authority over the National Guard. However, Mayor Bowser added the condition that "the National Guard cannot be armed during this mission and must not surveil or search citizens." Robert Contee, Chief of the Washington DC Police Department, also stated, "The National Guard will be responsible for managing protesters and traffic control," adding, "This will allow the police to focus on violent acts and security issues."

At a press conference held that day, Mayor Bowser warned, "About 340 National Guard members are being mobilized in preparation for violent protests," and said, "We will not tolerate people inciting violence, threatening residents, or destroying our city." In November, at least 20 citizens were arrested and two police officers injured during clashes between pro-Trump and anti-Trump protesters in Washington DC. In December, chaos continued as two Black churches had 'Black Lives Matter' (BLM) banners set on fire during protests by Trump supporters.

Meanwhile, President Trump has been encouraging his supporters to attend protests via Twitter daily. On New Year's Day, he wrote, "A large protest will be held in Washington DC at 11 a.m. on the 6th," adding, "Location details will be announced later. Stop the steal!"

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.