Pentagon confirms National Guard in DC through Jan 2029

The Pentagon has confirmed that thousands of National Guard troops will remain stationed in Washington, D.C., through Inauguration Day on January 20, 2029, extending a domestic military deployment that began in August 2025 into one of the longest in modern U.S. history. The extension, pending final approval from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, ensures a federal troop presence in the nation's capital for nearly the remainder of President Donald Trump's second term.

The deployment originated from an executive order in late summer 2025, which declared a public safety emergency and established the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force. Initially involving approximately 800 D.C. National Guard members, the mission has since expanded dramatically. In May, federal officials announced a "summer surge," boosting the total force to roughly 5,000 personnel drawn from more than 20 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to support events for the nation's 250th anniversary. Officials stated the increased presence was intended to ensure safety and allow local law enforcement to focus on their duties.

However, the mission has faced sustained criticism over its cost, effectiveness, and...