Fact-Check: "National Guard in D.C. Going After Children"
What We Know
The claim that the National Guard in Washington, D.C., is "going after children" appears to stem from a broader context regarding the deployment of National Guard troops to address crime in the city. Recently, approximately 800 National Guard members were activated as part of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force, aimed at supporting law enforcement in combating crime and improving safety in the area (Defense.gov). The deployment was initiated by President Trump, who described the situation in D.C. as a "crime-infested wasteland" and emphasized the need for a strong law enforcement presence to restore safety (The New York Times).
While the National Guard's mission includes providing support to law enforcement, there is no credible evidence or official statement indicating that the National Guard is specifically targeting children. In fact, the deployment's stated purpose is to enhance public safety and assist law enforcement in managing crime, not to engage with youth in a punitive manner (ABC News).
Analysis
The assertion that the National Guard is "going after children" lacks substantiation from reliable sources. The primary sources discussing the National Guard's deployment focus on crime prevention and public safety, rather than any targeted actions against children. For instance, a statement from Strategies for Youth criticized the deployment, arguing that the National Guard is not equipped to handle youth-related issues effectively, but this does not equate to a claim that they are actively pursuing children (Strategies for Youth).
Moreover, reports from various news outlets, including USA Today and NBC Washington, emphasize the National Guard's role in providing a visible security presence and assisting with crime-related issues, rather than targeting specific demographics. The initial deployment of troops was described as a "presence patrol," aimed at being seen in the community rather than engaging in aggressive law enforcement tactics (The New York Times).
The credibility of the sources discussing the National Guard's deployment is generally high, as they include reputable news organizations and official government communications. However, the interpretation of their actions can vary, and some narratives may sensationalize the situation to create a more alarming picture than warranted.
Conclusion
The claim that the National Guard in D.C. is "going after children" is False. There is no evidence to support the notion that the National Guard is specifically targeting children. Instead, their deployment is focused on enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement in addressing crime. The narrative appears to be a misinterpretation or exaggeration of the National Guard's intended role in the community.
Sources
- National Guard Task Force Mobilized to Restore Safety in D.C.
- National Guard Deploys in D.C. as Trump's Crime Plan Takes Shape
- National Guard troops have begun 24-hour operations in DC
- Few National Guard troops seen in DC as residents react
- Statement of Strategies for Youth Opposing Plans to Send the National Guard to Control Youth in Washington, D.C.
- National Guard appears in DC after Trump surges federal presence
- August 13th, 2025: Deploying the National Guard: Crime and Politics
- Federal patrols ramp up in DC during police takeover