Senator defends Guard presence in Washington, citing reduced crime, as communities rally around victims Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R‑W.Va.) is calling for the death penalty against the suspect accused of attacking two West Virginia National Guard members in Washington, D.C., describing the incident as a “horrific attack” on service members assigned to protect the capital.
Capito also defended the continued deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, noting that crime rates have declined since their arrival in August. She argued that the Guard’s presence has allowed the Metropolitan Police to focus on crime prevention and rejected criticism from Democratic lawmakers who oppose the mission.
The senator emphasized that Guard members serve voluntarily and provide a visible presence to reassure residents and visitors. “They were a presence there to indicate to civilians, dignitaries, whoever is in the capital city that peace is there and they’re going to feel safe,” Capito said.
Capito highlighted the impact of the attack on the victims’ families and communities, pointing to the outpouring of support from Webster County, Summersville, and the Eastern Panhandle. She noted that classmates, teachers, and neighbors have rallied around the families of Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew, offering prayers and comfort.
“West Virginians are a strong bunch,” Capito said. “When this hits one West Virginian, it hits all.”
