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Pentagon Orders 23,500 Troops for Riot Control Forces

10/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Pentagon signed a directive, led by Maj Gen Ronald Burkett, ordering all 50 states, District of Columbia, and territories to form quick reaction forces trained in riot control.
The directive requires 23,500 troops trained by January 2026 and creates a District of Columbia National Guard battalion, ready by 2027.
Critics, including former Marine Janessa Goldbeck, warn the move could militarize police to deter voter turnout in Democratic-led states.

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Story summary

The Pentagon signed a directive, led by Maj Gen Ronald Burkett, ordering all 50 states, District of Columbia, and territories to form quick reaction forces trained in riot control.
The directive requires 23,500 troops trained by January 2026 and creates a District of Columbia National Guard battalion, ready by 2027.
Critics, including former Marine Janessa Goldbeck, warn the move could militarize police to deter voter turnout in Democratic-led states.