Opinion - Outrageous: Liberal media holds Trump accountable for National Guard shooting in DC

Just before last weeks holiday, a shocking incident unfolded in Washington, D.C., when a gunman targeted two National Guard members just a few blocks from the White House. One soldier lost their life, while the other sustained serious injuries. Now, thoughts and prayers are with Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, who was killed, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who is fighting for survival.

Some media outlets have already shifted focus, suggesting the broader political climate or the deployment decision made by President Donald Trump is to blame, rather than the shooter himself. This perspective has been widely criticized as unfair and inaccuratethe responsibility lies squarely with the attacker.

The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who arrived in the U.S. in 2021 during the Biden administration, was apprehended immediately after the attack. Lakanwal was among thousands of Afghan allies who were prioritized for relocation during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. His role involved assisting American intelligence against extremist groups, which makes his relocation to the U.S. understandable.

Claims that the Biden administration failed to vet him are misleading. Reports indicate he was properly screened and approved. His violent actions appear to have developed after arriving in the U.S., including withdrawing from social contact, isolating himself, and making sudden cross-country tripsculminating in the attack in D.C.

It is also morally wrong to suggest that the presence of National Guard troops somehow provoked this act. Yet, some commentators in mainstream media have implied exactly that. For example, The Atlantics Juliette Kayyem described the incident as avoidable, warning that deploying troops carries inherent risks. While the danger exists, it does not justify blaming the deployment itself, much like we do not remove police presence to avoid potential attacks on officers, as their presence helps maintain safety.

Similarly, The New Yorkers Jane Mayer criticized the deployment as politically motivated and unnecessary, claiming the soldiers had virtually nothing to do. This underestimates the deterrent effect of their presence. Just as a police officer standing guard outside a store reduces theft and violence, the National Guard in D.C. prevents opportunistic crimes and contributes to public safety.

Political strategist Logan Dobson highlighted this effect on X, noting that from August 11 to the present, D.C. experienced 24 homicides compared to 61 during the same period last year, showing that the National Guard has actively saved lives. While reasonable debate about deployment is valid, claiming the presence of troops offers no benefit is demonstrably false.

Robby Soave, co-host of The Hills Rising and senior editor at Reason Magazine, provided this commentary in his daily column, emphasizing the critical role of the National Guard in protecting the city and its residents.

Author: Sophia Brooks