NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Memphis’ Mayor Paul Young expressed surprise after President Donald Trump’s announcement on Fox News regarding the National Guard’s deployment to the city for an anti-crime mission. Young stated that this was his first confirmation of such an action, despite previous conversations with Republican Gov. Bill Lee about considerations for additional law enforcement resources.
While speaking on CNN, Mayor Young clarified that he had been informed earlier about the potential for increased support from federal agencies like the FBI and DEA but had not anticipated Trump's announcement. He stated, No, that was the confirmation, when asked if he had received prior notice.
The backdrop to this announcement is a reduction in crime rates in Memphis. Recent police reports indicated significant drops in various crime categories, marking a 25-year low overall and a six-year low in murders. However, Young noted that Memphis has been plagued by stubborn gun violence, with a record of 390 homicides in 2023.
Details surrounding the deployment of the National Guard remain unclear, with plans still being finalized between Trump and Governor Lee. Mayor Young has expressed skepticism regarding the impact this deployment will have on reducing crime, citing historical fears within the community related to past National Guard interventions during turbulent events.
Young highlighted that he did not request the deployment and questioned its efficacy, emphasizing, We don’t want to invoke those same images here. His comments reflect a complicated relationship with law enforcement and a desire for substantial community engagement in how guards manage crime fighting.
As the situation unfolds, the specifics of how the National Guard will operate in Memphis are expected to evolve, with Young advocating for their involvement in community support measures rather than direct law enforcement activities.
