MEMPHIS, TN – Today, Councilman JB Smiley Jr. released a video statement condemning Donald Trump’s efforts to deploy the National Guard into Memphis, calling the move a political stunt that endangers communities instead of making them safer.
“Hate has no place in Memphis-not from an out-of-touch president, an absent governor, or from troops sent to occupy our streets,” Smiley said.
In his statement, Smiley rejected the false narrative that military occupations address crime. Instead, he emphasized that sending troops into cities only instills fear, isolates communities, and weakens local economies.
“Occupations don’t make us safer-they lock us inside, isolate us from our neighbors, strain our economy, and keep us living in fear. That’s not safety. That’s intimidation,” he continued. “I do not-and will not-support Donald Trump or anyone else sending the National Guard into Memphis. The Guard is not trained for community safety, and their presence would only install fear. Our city does not need an occupation. We need opportunity.”
Smiley underscored that real safety and progress come from jobs, education, and investment-not military presence. “Safety doesn’t come from troops on corners. Safety comes from good-paying jobs, strong schools, and real investment in our neighborhoods. That’s how you build hope. That’s how you build safety,” he said.
Smiley also reminded Memphians of his track record of standing with the people against state interference, pointing to his leadership in the fight to put a gun referendum on the ballot. “I’ve never been afraid to stand with my people and push back against the state. I did it when we fought to put the gun referendum on the ballot, and I’m doing the same here,” Smiley stated.
Closing his remarks, Smiley made clear that he stands ready to defend Memphis if the National Guard is deployed. “And if they try to send the Guard here? I’ll be standing where I’ve always been-with the people. On our streets, in our churches, in our neighborhoods-making sure Memphis will not be silenced. We will not be threatened. We will not be intimidated. No troops in Memphis-because we deserve better!”.
For Media Inquiries, please email Lynn Whitney lynn@votejbsmiley.com
