Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry praised President Donald Trump for deploying the National Guard to New Orleans, calling the move a “great Christmas gift” that prioritizes public safety over politics. Speaking on Rob Schmitt Tonight, Landry stated Trump’s decision reflects a shared commitment to protecting lives and restoring order in communities facing violent crime.
“I’m more interested in saving lives and keeping people protected, as is President Donald Trump, than those who would use this as political cannon fodder to divide Americans,” Landry said. “Safety is an issue that transcends political parties.”
Trump ordered the deployment of hundreds of National Guard troops to New Orleans earlier this month, sending them into the city ahead of Christmas. The Guard members are assisting local and state law enforcement with patrols, logistics, and crime-prevention operations. Landry emphasized the federal support aligns with his administration’s focus on toughening crime enforcement and criminal justice policies.
“ heating up the country,” he said, adding that cracking down on crime has been central to his governorship since taking office. “One of the first things I did when I came into this role was double down on crime and criminal justice, making sure victims have a voice and criminals are behind bars.”
Landry rejected criticism from political opponents questioning the National Guard deployment, insisting public safety should never be politicized. “Who doesn’t want to be safe in their homes and communities?” he said. “It was a great Christmas gift he did this year for the city of New Orleans and for Louisiana.”
