National Guard Deployment in New Orleans Extended for Six Months

Louisiana National Guard to remain in New Orleans through August to deter criminal activity

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Louisiana National Guard announced that 120 troops will remain deployed in New Orleans through August, extending the initial deployment that began in late December. The six-month extension comes after the Guard was initially sent to the city to provide a 'visible presence to deter criminal activity' during high-profile events like Mardi Gras.

Why it matters

The National Guard deployment in New Orleans is part of a broader trend of federal troops being sent to Democrat-run cities by the Trump administration, raising questions about the role of the military in domestic law enforcement and the political motivations behind such deployments.

The details

The Louisiana National Guard was initially deployed to New Orleans in late December, with 350 troops clustered mainly in the city's historic French Quarter. The troops were scheduled to depart after Mardi Gras, but the deployment has now been extended for an additional six months through August. According to the Louisiana National Guard, the remaining 120 troops will continue to serve as a 'visible presence to deter criminal activity in New Orleans'.

  • The Louisiana National Guard was initially deployed to New Orleans in late December 2025.
  • The troops were scheduled to depart after Mardi Gras in early 2026.
  • The deployment has now been extended for an additional six months through August 2026.

The players

Louisiana National Guard

The military force of the state of Louisiana, which has been deployed to New Orleans to provide a 'visible presence to deter criminal activity'.

Helena Moreno

The Democratic mayor of New Orleans, who initially opposed the National Guard deployment but now says the troops will benefit the city in the coming weeks.

Jeff Landry

The Republican governor of Louisiana and a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, who requested the deployment of the National Guard last September.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This continued deployment will help us combat violence in New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana.”

— Jeff Landry, Governor of Louisiana (X)

“I continue to support the partnership with the LA National Guard to assist in our major events and there are several coming up in the next few weeks.”

— Helena Moreno, Mayor of New Orleans (Press Statement)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.