National Guard Troops in DC Will Carry Firearms

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has authorized National Guard troops patrolling the streets of Washington, DC, to carry firearms, per the AP. The Pentagon didn't offer further details or explain the move, but Friday's order applies to members of the DC National Guard called up by President Trump as well as to Guard members from six other states that have sent troops, per the Washington Post.

• Mission: It was unclear if the Guard's role in the federal intervention was changing. The troops have not taken part in law enforcement and largely have been protecting landmarks, including the National Mall and Union Station, and helping with crowd control.

• President praises: Trump has boasted that the city is safer than ever because of his intervention. He told reporters Friday that "it's a miracle what's happened." DC "was a hell hole," he said. "But now it's safe." He suggested that he could prolong the deployment of troops and federal agents in Washington. "The big question is how long do we stay?" he said. "Because if we stay, we want to make sure it doesn't come back. So we have to take care of these criminals and get them out."
• $2 billion beautification: Trump also said he would ask Congress for $2 billion to improve the appearance of the city, including resurfacing roads and sprucing up streetlights. He's previously pledged to improve the grass to look like one of his golf courses. "It's going to be safe, and it's going to be beautified," he said.