Memphis, September 14, 2025
News Summary
The National Guard will be deployed in Memphis following an announcement by President Trump to combat increasing crime, particularly gun violence. Mayor Paul Young acknowledged the deployment aimed at addressing public safety, despite a recent decline in overall crime rates. Details about troop numbers and roles are still being finalized, and local leaders have mixed opinions on the necessity of this military involvement. Concerns are also raised about the community’s perception of having the National Guard engaged in urban policing.
Memphis
The National Guard is set to be deployed in Memphis as part of an anti-crime initiative, following an announcement by President Donald Trump. Mayor Paul Young confirmed the deployment, which is designed to address ongoing concerns about crime in the city, particularly gun violence.
Mayor Young received confirmation from President Trump during an interview on Fox News, a world away from Memphis, after months of discussions with state officials. The idea of deploying the National Guard had been under consideration by Republican Governor Bill Lee‘s office.
Trump described Memphis as โdeeply troubled,โ paralleling the situation to actions taken in Washington D.C.. Despite the city’s recent achievements, including a reduction in all major crime categories and a 25-year low in overall crime, including a six-year low in murders, persistent gun violence remains a significant issue.
In 2023, Memphis reported 390 homicides, indicating a pressing need for effective crime control measures. While the police department has seen a decrease in crime rates in the early months of 2025, concerns about gun violence have led to discussions involving federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF.
Amid these developments, the city continues to navigate the aftermath of the Tyre Nichols incident, where police officers were involved in his death, resulting in a Department of Justice investigation concerning civil rights violations. Earlier this year, the Trump administration pulled back the DOJโs findings on civil rights abuses connected to the Memphis Police Department.
Although Governor Lee is finalizing the details regarding the National Guard’s deployment, the specifics surrounding troop numbers, timing, and exact roles remain unclear. The governor has indicated a commitment to coordinating with Trump to establish a clear plan in the upcoming week.
Potential roles for the National Guard may include supporting large events, assisting with traffic management, monitoring surveillance cameras, and contributing to neighborhood enhancement projects. However, Mayor Young has expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the deployment in reducing crime in Memphis, stating that he did not request it, and admitted to uncertainties regarding its impact.
Concerns about community perceptions of the National Guard’s presence have been raised, particularly given historical context during significant civil rights events. Mayor Young noted that the National Guard has historically played roles in disaster response and integration enforcement.
Discussions surrounding the deployment extend beyond Memphis, with potential plans to activate up to 1,000 National Guard troops for urban centers in need if requested by the state governor. However, local leaders have voiced differing opinions on the necessity of such measures in light of decreasing crime rates.
In the meantime, National Guard troops remain deployed in Washington, where armed personnel are stationed in public spaces following the expiration of Trump’s emergency order.
Conclusion
The upcoming deployment of the National Guard in Memphis, prompted by federal and state discussions in light of continued crime concerns, raises questions about the effectiveness and community impact of military involvement in urban policing.
FAQ Section
What prompted the deployment of the National Guard in Memphis?
The deployment was prompted by President Trump’s announcement and ongoing concerns about crime and gun violence in Memphis, despite recent reductions in major crime rates.
How does the Mayor feel about the National Guard’s deployment?
Mayor Young expressed doubts about the effectiveness of the deployment in reducing crime and mentioned that he did not request it, indicating his desire to help guide how the National Guard engages in the community.
What roles may the National Guard take on in Memphis?
Potential roles for the National Guard include supporting large events, assisting with traffic management, monitoring city surveillance systems, and contributing to community beautification projects.
What historical context exists for National Guard deployments?
The National Guard has a history of assisting during disasters, enforcing school integration, and supporting law enforcement initiatives, particularly notable during significant civil rights events.
Key Features of the National Guard Deployment Plan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Deployment Confirmation | Confirmed by President Trump and Memphis Mayor Paul Young |
| Reasons for Deployment | Ongoing crime concerns, especially gun violence |
| Crime Statistics | 25-year low in overall crime; 390 homicides in 2023 |
| Community Involvement | Mayor Young wants to guide the National Guard’s engagement |
| Potential Roles | Traffic assistance, event support, community beautification |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
