National Guard troops appear in Washington DC as mayor rejects 'authoritarian push'

Mayor: "We Won't Let This City Become a Battleground"

Mayor Isabella Bartoli spoke defiantly yesterday, saying she would not let the city become a battleground for the federal government and the National Guard. The arrival of troops and vehicles in the capital has been viewed by many as an authoritarian push by the federal government and has ignited fears that the city may be heading towards a martial law situation.

What's Next?

The mayor has called a special council meeting today to discuss the city's response and how to protect civil rights. Meanwhile, National Guard Major General William Taylor has assured the public that the peace officers involved have been trained to de-escalate and that apons will only be used as a last resort.