Summary: Draft planning documents envision deploying 1,000 Louisiana National Guard troops to support policing in New Orleans and Baton Rouge under Title 32 authority, per the Washington Post, with Reuters confirming the documents’ authenticity. The proposal is not approved and would require a request from the governor.
What happened
The plan would run through September 2026 and focus on logistics, comms, and drug‑interdiction support to local police. The Pentagon acknowledged the documents exist but declined further comment.
Why it matters
- Precedent: Long‑duration Guard policing missions blur military‑civilian lines and could face legal and political challenges.
- Readiness: A year‑plus mission during hurricane seasons may strain Guard availability for disasters.
Key facts
- Scope: 1,000 personnel; mission through Sept 30, 2026 (draft).
- Status: contingent on governor request; no formal approval.
- Authority: Title 32 (state control with federal funding).
What to watch
Whether Governor Jeff Landry formally requests the mission; legal reviews from DoD/DoJ; civil‑liberties responses from city and state leaders.