The National Guard responded that its personnel are directed not to monitor or secure polling locations and is addressing the specific incident in Foggy Bottom. Two officials from the Guard told the Washington Post that the troops shown in the video were not attempting to guard the ballot box.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Story
DC Board of Elections Asks National Guard to Avoid Ballot Boxes
US Politics11 days ago
A video showing military personnel near a vote collection point in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood on Oct. 9 led to an official request for soldiers to vacate the area. The DC Board of Elections told the National Guard to stay away from the city's ballot drop boxes, which had just opened for voters, after footage of troops near one of the boxes circulated on social media.
Looking for more context or analysis?
Tilt chat provides reliable, tailored insights, alerts, and automations.