Journalist Jane Mayer Faces Backlash for Comments on Slain National Guard Soldiers Near White House, Calling Deployment a 'Political Show'

Journalist Sparks Outrage Over Comments on Slain National Guard Members Near White House

A firestorm of controversy erupted online following remarks made by New Yorker journalist Jane Mayer regarding the deployment and tragic deaths of National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C. Mayer’s comments, posted on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after two U.S. National Guard members were shot near the White House, ignited widespread criticism for allegedly downplaying their service and sacrifice.

Mayer's Controversial Statements Elicit Strong Reactions

Living in Washington D.C. herself, Mayer asserted that the Trump administration’s deployment of Guardsmen in the capital was merely a "political show." She expressed condolences for the incident but coupled it with a provocative observation that became the focal point of a fierce debate:

"This is so tragic, so unnecessary, these poor guardsmen should never have been deployed. I live in DC and watched as they had virtually nothing to do but pick up trash. It was for political show and at what a cost."

Public Outcry and Accusations of Disrespect

The journalist's remarks drew immediate and severe backlash from across the political spectrum. Critics accused Mayer of disrespecting and belittling soldiers who were killed in the line of duty. Many social media users emphasized that the Guardsmen risked their lives to protect the city, labeling her post as ungrateful and insensitive. Responses ranged from sharp questions about her perception of the Guard's role – "The city wasn't picking up the trash, you're saying? And obviously you weren't, because, well, you have important journalism stuff to do. So some soldiers did it instead. Who are dead now." – to pointed accusations of enabling chaos and then criticizing those who brought safety:

"Jane you disgusting ghoul. These Guardsmen were shot protecting DC from the chaos your side enabled for years, and your first move is to call their sacrifice ‘unnecessary’."

Some commentators highlighted the fundamental role of the Guard in maintaining public safety: "Funny how people criticize the National Guard, until they’re the ones being robbed or attacked. That’s when they realize the Guard is there to protect them and keep communities safe from criminals."

Details of the Tragic Shooting Incident

The shooting incident, which prompted a brief lockdown of the White House, involved two National Guard members. Authorities identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who had entered the United States in 2021. Police confirmed that Lakanwal was wounded during the confrontation.

Official and Political Response

Following the attack, former President Trump issued a statement condemning the incident as "unacceptable" and vowing swift action as the investigation continued. The controversy surrounding Mayer's comments underscored a broader debate about the role and perception of the National Guard, especially during times of civil unrest and political tension in the nation's capital.