Hegseth Calls D.C. Protesters 'Ingrates' as 4,000 National Guard Troops Remain Deployed
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 2
Hegseth Calls D.C. Protesters 'Ingrates' as 4,000 National Guard Troops Remain Deployed
3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 2
Summary
Pete Hegseth used a D.C. National Guard event to denounce hecklers as “ingrates” after “Free DC” protesters disrupted remarks with whistles and horns.
The protest hit a Trump administration showcase for the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force, where Hegseth, Stephen Miller and acting Attorney General Todd Blanche praised Guard members patrolling the capital.
More than 4,000 National Guard troops are still deployed in Washington after Trump sent about 800 troops in August 2025 under a public safety emergency declaration; Republican-led states later added personnel.
The clash reflects Trump’s broader push for a larger federal role in the District on crime, homelessness and public safety, even after the federal takeover of D.C.'s police ended in September.