URGENT UPDATE: Tensions are soaring following a violent incident in Washington, D.C., where two National Guard troops were shot. In a heated exchange, an official White House account publicly condemned a reporter’s criticism of President Donald Trump’s National Guard deployment, labeling her as a “sick, disgusting ghoul.”
The confrontation erupted after Jane Mayer of The New Yorker expressed her outrage on X, stating, “This is so tragic, so unnecessary, these poor guardsmen should never have been deployed.” Mayer highlighted the frustration of witnessing National Guard troops in the city seemingly engaged in minimal activity, describing it as a mere political maneuver.
In a swift and fiery response, the Rapid Response 47 account shot back, “You sick, disgusting ghoul,” asserting that the soldiers were “heroes” and underscoring the perilous circumstances they faced. “Two of these heroes were just SHOT IN BROAD DAYLIGHT,” the account emphasized, defending the National Guard’s role in saving lives.
As of now, reports have clarified that the two troops, initially believed to be deceased, are alive but in critical condition. The details surrounding the shooting are still unfolding, with the suspect identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. A motive for the attack has yet to be disclosed.
In a politically charged atmosphere, some Republican figures have already begun to leverage the incident for their agendas. Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) accused a group of six military veteran Democrats of inciting the situation, referencing a video urging soldiers to defy unlawful orders.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting. This incident not only highlights the dangers faced by those in uniform but also amplifies the ongoing political discourse surrounding military presence in urban areas.
Stay tuned for further developments as officials work to uncover more details surrounding this urgent situation.