Opinion: Memphians deserve a choice in how we are governed and policed
Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., speaks as Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., right, and President Donald Trump listen before Trump signs a memorandum in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, in Washington. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo)
Michael J. LaRosa
Michael J. LaRosa is an associate professor of history at Rhodes College.
“The outsiders ... who think this “surge” is a wonderful idea for the city have little insight into how the deployment of a few hundred people in a city as sprawling and diverse as Memphis can effectively combat crime.”
Related stories
National Guard becomes issue in Tennessee governor’s race
The coming deployment of the Guard to the city is also finding its way into other parts of local politics including a surprise appearance by a Democratic County Commissioner at a Republican rally backing the Guard’s arrival.
Resolution opposing National Guard deployment fails to pass County Commission
After much debate, the commission failed to pass any resolution on the National Guard. Discussion moved on to a new jail, grants and the county reserves.
City Council votes down National Guard resolution
The resolution opposing the guard deployment as part of a larger anti-crime initiative by the Trump administration was defeated on a tie vote.
Want to comment on our stories or respond to others? Join the conversation by subscribing now. Only paid subscribers can add their thoughts or upvote/downvote comments. Our commenting policy can be viewed here.