Councilmembers Oppose Governor Landry’s Request for National Guard Deployment in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, LA - Tuesday, September 30, 2025 - Councilmembers representing the communities most impacted by crime are voicing strong opposition to Governor Jeff Landry's request to deploy the National Guard into Baton Rouge. While public safety is a shared priority, these councilmembers argue that the Governor's proposal represents government overreach, threatens civil liberties, and diverts resources away from the long-term solutions residents deserve.

"We are calling on Mayor Sid Edwards to reject this request," said Councilman Cleve Dunn, Jr. Dunn went on to say, "Unlike trained police officers, National Guard members are not equipped for community policing, de-escalation, or upholding civil liberties in everyday interactions.

"Their presence would escalate tensions and deepen mistrust, particularly in marginalized communities. Safety comes from partnership and trust, not from occupation."

Councilwoman Carolyn Coleman said, "Mayor Edwards has appointed his own leadership team, Public Safety Director Jeff LeDuff and Police Chief T.J. Morse to address crime in Baton Rouge. If he truly believes in their ability to lead, he should stand behind them rather than turning to outside militarization. Bringing the National Guard into our neighborhoods undermines the very leadership structure the Mayor himself put in place."

"I don't think this is the role of the National Guard," said Councilwoman Twahna P. Harris. The councilwoman pointed out significant constitutional concerns, including the Posse Comitatus Act, which prevents the use of military forces for domestic policing, as it can set a tone of division, mistrust and uncertainty. Investing resources within our community and organizations that supports crime reduction and safety should also be a priority. She stated, "I remain steadfast and committed to ensuring that every effort to restore peace and safety in our neighborhoods is carried out with respect, care, and dignity."

The group also raised concerns about cost, noting that Baton Rouge already faces a $50 million budget deficit.

"Independent studies estimate that Guard deployments can cost between 1 and 3 million dollars per day. Imagine what those resources could do if invested directly into Baton Rouge: blight elimination, job training, healthcare access, youth mentoring and recreation programs, community violence intervention, and improvements to stormwater and drainage infrastructure. These are the investments that create lasting safety," said Councilman Cleve Dunn, Jr.

"Governor Landry's decision to deploy National Guard troops is a shortsighted misuse of federal resources. Troop deployments won't fix what's broken. Real change comes from investing in our communities - funding programs, prevention, and public safety strategies that tackle crime at its roots. Our communities deserve bold, proactive leadership, not political stunts," said Councilman Anthony Kenney.

The councilmembers concluded by urging Mayor Edwards to stand with the leaders he appointed and with the people of Baton Rouge. Mayor Edwards has the choice to either side with militarization or to side with community investment. We urge him to reject this dangerous precedent and instead commit to the solutions that will make our city safer, stronger, and more united.