A National Guard deployment in New Orleans, authorized by President Donald Trump, will commence on Tuesday to bolster security for upcoming New Year’s celebrations. This deployment is particularly significant given the tragic events of last year when a vehicle attack on Bourbon Street resulted in the deaths of 14 people.
The National Guard’s mission in New Orleans comes on the heels of similar deployments in other cities under the Trump administration, including operations in Washington and Memphis. However, the presence of National Guard troops is a familiar sight in New Orleans, where they previously supported security efforts during major events like the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras.
According to New Orleans police spokesperson Reese Harper, “It’s no different than what we’ve seen in the past.” The National Guard’s role will not intersect with ongoing federal immigration enforcement operations that are currently resulting in numerous arrests; Harper clarified that this deployment is strictly for safety and visibility, “to keep our citizens safe.”
The National Guard will focus primarily on the French Quarter, a tourist hotspot, and will not partake in immigration enforcement activities. The 350 Guard members will remain in the city through the Carnival season, a time when both residents and visitors flock to New Orleans for vibrant celebrations and parades leading up to Mardi Gras in mid-February.
Lt. Col. Noel Collins of the Louisiana National Guard stated that the troops are present to support local, state, and federal law enforcement, aiming to enhance overall safety, stabilize the environment, and restore public trust. In total, over 800 law enforcement officials will work together in New Orleans, implementing measures such as blocking off Bourbon Street to vehicle traffic, conducting bag searches, and managing traffic flow.
This enhanced law enforcement presence has garnered support from some local leaders, including Mayor LaToya Cantrell, who expressed her acceptance of the added resources. This decision follows last year’s harrowing incident, where Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove through a police blockade and launched a deadly attack on celebrators. After being apprehended, law enforcement discovered multiple undetonated bomb devices placed around the French Quarter.
In a strategic call for increased security, Governor Jeff Landry had previously reached out to Trump to request 1,000 troops to assist with rising crime concerns. However, some local Democrats argued against such a substantial military presence, citing a decrease in violent crime in recent years as evidence that the city is becoming safer.
Overall, the deployment of the National Guard reflects a proactive approach in ensuring the safety of residents and tourists during a time of celebration, forging a path toward a secure and joyous New Year’s Eve in the heart of New Orleans.