Protests unfolded as administration officials celebrated accomplishments linked to the long-term deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. The ceremony took place to honor these troops alongside the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force.
On July 2, 2026, at Meridian Hill Park in D.C., Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the gathering. He was joined by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, and General Steven Nordhaus, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau.
Hegseth commended the National Guard members stationed in the city, asserting that their presence led to a significant reduction in crime rates. This claim was made during an event marked by the protest of dozens who opposed the extended military deployment in the area.
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