President Trump has activated 800 National Guard members to address what he calls a crime emergency in Washington, D.C.

This move, announced Monday, involves taking control of the city's police department. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, while pledging cooperation, insists the police chief remains in charge.

The Associated Press spoke with D.C. residents about their reactions to the National Guard deployment.

Jeraod Tyre, who lives in the city and sells drinks near the White House, said having the National Guard is “a little too much.”

“Some people might be scared or something, you know,” Tyre said. “I feel safe walking through the city each and every day. I feel safe. So we don’t need troops in the city.”

Sheina Taylor shared a similar view, saying the troops’ presence feels more intimidating given her race.

“I’m African American,” Taylor said. “I can get pulled over in my car, everything’s legit. But I still don’t know how that interaction will work out for me.”

Trump cites rising crime, but city officials note crime rates are actually declining. The law allows Trump to control the police for up to 30 days, but extending this requires Congressional approval.