DETROIT — Last week, Vice President JD Vance made a speech in the reliably Republican mid-Michigan city of Howell, mainly to promote the Trump Administration’s economic policy. But he also charged that there was a violent crime wave in Detroit, and suggested the governor ask the Trump Administration to ask for troops.

“Gretchen, we are happy to send the National Guard to Detroit, Michigan. All you’ve got to do is ask,” he said.

When I heard those words, I realized that even if saying that was good politics, that Mr. Vance was sadly ignorant of history.

For once upon a time, a president did indeed send the Michigan National Guard to Detroit, and it was a terrible disaster.

First, it should be noted that there is, in fact, no crime wave. Yes, Detroit has more than its share of troubles,

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