Louisiana Governor Calls Trump’s National Guard Deployment a “Great Christmas Gift” for New Orleans

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry praised President Donald Trump on Tuesday for deploying hundreds of National Guard troops to New Orleans, calling the move a “great Christmas gift” that prioritizes public safety over politics.

Speaking on Rob Schmitt Tonight, Landry stated Trump’s decision reflects a shared commitment to protecting lives and restoring order in communities facing violent crime. “I’m more interested in saving lives and keeping people protected, as is President Trump, than those who would use this as some sort of political cannon fodder to divide Americans,” he said.

Trump ordered the National Guard deployment earlier this month ahead of Christmas, sending troops to assist local and state law enforcement with patrols, logistics, and crime-prevention operations. Landry welcomed the federal support, asserting: “No one understands the need for safe homes and safe communities better than President Trump and I.”

The governor emphasized that cracking down on crime has been a central focus of his administration since taking office. He highlighted pushing for tougher enforcement, stronger criminal justice policies, and greater victim advocacy—priorities he said align closely with Trump’s approach. “One of the first things I did when I came into this governorship was double down on crime and criminal justice,” Landry stated. “We made sure victims have a voice and put criminals behind bars.”

Landry rejected criticism from political opponents who questioned the National Guard deployment, insisting public safety should never be politicized. “Who doesn’t want to be safe in their homes and communities?” he added. “It was a great Christmas gift he did this year for the city of New Orleans and for Louisiana.”