Hegseth approves sending 350 more National Guard troops to New Orleans

War Secretary Pete Hegseth this week signed off on sending an additional 350 National Guard troops to help with the Trump administration's crackdown on crime and illegal immigration in New Orleans.

The Department of Homeland Security earlier this month launched "Operation Catahoula Crunch" in New Orleans, which focused on arresting illegal migrants who were sent to jail, then released without federal immigration officials being notified.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said Tuesday that the additional forces will "support federal law enforcement partners ... as they enforce federal law and counter high rates of violent crime in New Orleans."

"Operating under Governor Landry's command and control, this mission will directly enhance the safety of Louisiana's residents and the enforcement of federal laws – reaffirming the Department of War's commitment to supporting our interagency partners and the safety and security of our nation," he said.

The additional forces come as the Supreme Court weighs the legality of President Donald Trump's federalization of the National Guard. The court declined Trump's emergency request to activate the guard in response to immigration issues in Chicago on Tuesday.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.