Recent events, including the 2025 presidential inauguration and expanded border deployments, highlight the Guard’s delicate balance between support and enforcement. Through strategic messaging and visible actions, such as the use of distinctive patches to reinforce its role as a stabilizing institution rather than a policing force, the Guard has worked to navigate public concerns about militarization. But with new leadership at the Department of Defense, will this careful balance be maintained?

Beat the doomscroll blues with some holiday activities that actually help others.