The Trump administration has moved 350 National Guard troops into New Orleans, a deployment that will last through February, according to Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell. The troops will work alongside federal law-enforcement partners, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security, as they have in other large-city deployments.
Governor Landry Praises Trump and Hegseth
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, a Republican, appeared on the Fox News’ “The Will Cain Show” to commend President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for coordinating the Guard’s arrival. “It’s going to help us further crack down on the violence here in the city of New Orleans and elsewhere around Louisiana,” Landry said. “And so a big shoutout to both of them.”
Critics Question the Need for the Guard
Opponents of the deployment argue that a National Guard presence is unnecessary and could create fear among residents. They point to data showing a decline in violent crime in New Orleans, with the city recording its lowest murder totals in decades. Preliminary figures from the city’s police department show 97 homicides in 2025 as of Nov. 1, down from 124 last year and 193 in 2023.
Immigration Crackdown in Full Swing
At the same time, Border Patrol agents are conducting an immigration operation that began at the start of the month. The Department of Homeland Security reports that agents have arrested several hundred people in the first weeks of the effort, which is expected to continue for months and aims for 5,000 arrests. The crackdown is part of a broader federal push to enforce immigration laws.
A History of Guard Deployments in Louisiana
In September, Landry had asked Trump to send 1,000 federally funded troops to Louisiana cities amid crime concerns. He has praised the president for deploying troops to Washington, D.C., and Memphis, Tennessee, and has now received a similar deployment for New Orleans. Earlier this year, the Guard was present during major events such as the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras.
New Orleans’ Recent Crime Trends
The city’s crime statistics paint a picture of improvement. Armed robberies, aggravated assaults, carjackings, shootings, and property crimes have all trended downward. The 97 homicides in 2025 include 14 victims killed on New Year’s Day during a truck attack on Bourbon Street, an incident that prompted the initial Guard deployment of 100 troops in January.
The Truck Attack That Sparked Guard Deployment
A U.S. Army veteran driving a pickup truck bearing the Islamic State flag drove through a police blockade, striking revelers during New Year’s celebrations. The attacker was shot dead by police. The incident highlighted security challenges in the city and led to the first Guard deployment in January.
Landry’s New Role as Special Envoy
In a separate announcement, President Trump named Gov. Landry as his special envoy to Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark that Trump has said the U.S. needs to take over. The appointment underscores the close relationship between the governor and the administration.
Key Takeaways
- 350 National Guard troops have been deployed to New Orleans through February to support DOJ and DHS.
- Gov. Jeff Landry praised the deployment and highlighted its role in reducing violence.
- Critics note a decline in violent crime and question the necessity of the Guard.
- Border Patrol agents are conducting a month-long immigration crackdown aiming for 5,000 arrests.
- New Orleans has seen a steady drop in homicides and other violent crimes over the past few years.
Closing
The federal deployment of National Guard troops to New Orleans, coupled with the ongoing immigration crackdown, represents a significant federal effort to address security concerns in the city. While supporters view the Guard’s presence as a positive step toward curbing violence, critics remain wary of potential community impact. The situation continues to evolve as the Guard remains on the ground through February and the immigration operation proceeds.
