Maryland Governor Wes Moore has openly criticized President Donald Trump for his decision to deploy the National Guard to Washington, D.C. Moore described the move as lacking “seriousness” and underscored the implications of such a decision on the lives of service members and their families. Speaking to CNN’s Anderson Cooper on March 5, 2024, he emphasized the need for careful consideration when calling upon citizen soldiers.
Moore highlighted his own military experience in the Army, stating, “The people making these decisions have never worn the uniform themselves. The only uniform they have worn are Brooks Brothers suits.” He expressed concern that those in power may not fully grasp the consequences of their actions on the National Guard and the communities they serve.
The governor elaborated on the costs associated with deploying the National Guard, noting that such actions divert resources away from other critical situations, including natural disasters. “Members of the National Guard have families and other jobs to consider,” Moore pointed out, reinforcing the idea that their service should not be used for political gain. He affirmed, “While I will be unafraid to utilize and mobilize the National Guard in emergencies, I will not use it as a political tool.”
President Trump’s announcement on March 4, 2024, declared a crime emergency in Washington, D.C., and included a directive for the Justice Department to oversee the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The President’s actions are framed as necessary to combat crime in the capital. However, Democrats and various critics argue that violent crime rates in Washington, D.C., have actually decreased in recent years.
Moore’s remarks come at a time of heightened scrutiny over law enforcement practices and the use of military resources within domestic settings. The governor’s position reflects a growing concern among some state leaders regarding the implications of federal intervention in local law enforcement matters.
As discussions around the National Guard’s role in civil matters continue, Moore’s stance highlights the importance of accountability and the need for informed decision-making that respects the sacrifices made by service members and their families.