Khanna demands Democrats stand firm to remove National Guard from D.C

In the United States, on August 22, 2025, Democratic Representative Ro Khanna articulated the necessity for Senate Democrats to leverage their power during upcoming government funding negotiations. During a broadcast on MSNBC's "The Weekend," Khanna criticized the presence of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., claiming that it serves to enable President Donald Trump to maintain control. He urged Senate colleagues to withhold votes unless the Republican party agreed to withdraw these troops and address other concerns. Khanna expressed frustration over early Democratic capitulation in past negotiations, specifically mentioning the Democrats' vote for the Laken Riley Act, which he argues undermines due process and affects deportation policies. Khanna believes the administration's approach is detrimental, not just politically but also economically, citing reduced foot traffic for local businesses as a consequence of the military presence. He contended that President Trump should focus on urgent national and international issues such as economic recovery and humanitarian crises instead of deploying forces domestically. Khanna's remarks reflect broader concerns among Democrats about the politicization of security and governance under the Trump administration, highlighting the tension between party strategies over funding and national security measures. This ongoing discourse underscores a significant political climate where party unity and public safety intersect with governmental authority.