(NewsNation) — National Guard troops deployed in Washington, D.C., are expected to have their military orders extended through December, a defense official confirmed to NewsNation.
The Department of Defense is waiting for relevant documents to be signed, which could happen as early as Wednesday, the official said.
If granted, extending the deployment length would aim to ensure benefits for troops and their families are available, according to a separate source with knowledge of the matter.
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It would not mean the deployment would definitely last until the end of the year, CNN first reported.
“While exceptions exist, the majority of service members are mobilized on orders extending beyond 30 days, ensuring they qualify for full benefits. Our goal is 100%,” Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard said in a statement.
By invoking the 1973 Home Rule Act, President Donald Trump has command of the district’s National Guard for 30 days. That deadline ends next week, and anything further would require congressional approval.
It was unclear as of Wednesday whether Trump had asked for an extension.
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Troops have been on the streets of the nation’s capital since Aug. 12, as part of Trump’s federal crackdown on crime. The deployment began with hundreds but has ramped up to more than 2,200 troops in the following weeks.
Trump has repeatedly hinted at seeking “long-term extensions” from Congress as his 30-day deadline draws near.
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The extension in D.C. would come as Trump pushes forward with plans to send federal forces into Chicago and Baltimore, despite protests from local leaders and residents.
On Tuesday, a federal judge ruled that Trump’s use of the National Guard to fight crime in California was illegal and blocked the president from continuing to deploy those troops in the state.
