Trump mobilizes DC's National Guard, promises further action

WASHINGTON (SBG) — President Donald Trump has mobilized Washington’s National Guard to protect the White House as protests continue nearby for a fourth day.

Hundreds of soldiers and airmen will support U.S. Park Police, federal police and the Metro Police Department to guard the White House and federal monuments. A release says D.C. National Guard members may be armed for personal protection.

Shortly after the announcement, Trump made a statement from the Rose Garden at the White House, where he promised to protect citizens and cities from riots and looting.

"The biggest victims of the rioting are peace-loving citizens in our poorest communities, and as their president, I will fight to keep them safe," Trump said. "I am your president of law and order, and an ally of all peaceful protesters."

Trump promised immediate presidential action to stop violent outbreaks, including "thousands and thousands" of "heavily armed" soldiers, military personnel and law enforcement officers.

Minutes before Trump made his address, tear gas and flash bangs were used on a large group of protesters in Lafayette Park near the White House.

National Guard personnel have been deployed across the country as thousands of protesters have made their way into cities.

In a call Monday, Trump reportedly told governors they were weak and needed to arrest people. He has called for law and order throughout the week of demonstrations since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

"If a city or state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents, then I will deploy the United States military and quickly solve the problem for them," Trump said Monday.

In Washington, the weekend was filled with peaceful daytime protests that devolved into destruction and looting at night. The president said he will strictly enforce the 7p.m. curfew.

"We are putting everybody on warning or seven o'clock curfew will be strictly enforced. Those who threaten innocent life and property will be arrested detained and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I want the organizers of this terror, to be on notice that you will face severe criminal penalties and lengthy sentences in jail," Trump said.

After his address, the president made a surprise visit to St. John's Church, a historical building that was set on fire over the weekend. Since James Madison, every president has attended a service in the building.