President Donald Trump announced Friday that he will deploy the National Guard to Memphis to tackle crime, following similar actions in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, with support from Republican Gov. Bill Lee but mixed reactions from Democratic Mayor Paul Young, who prefers funding for prevention and policing over military involvement.

Trump, citing a conversation with Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena about the city’s dangers, called Memphis “deeply troubled” despite police data showing overall crime at a 25-year low and murders at a six-year low in early 2025; the White House provided no timeline or details on federal surges. Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris decried the move as an “occupation” with armored vehicles and armed troops, while Republicans like Sens. Marsha Blackburn and state Sen. Brent Taylor endorsed it for logistical aid to local forces.