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The Pentagon's decision to extend the National Guard deployment of 2,300 troops at the U.S. Capitol until May 23 to protect against an unknown threat is prompting outrage and concern from critics.
The Guard has been positioned around the legislative hall since the Jan. 6 Capitol riot was carried out by some of former President Donald Trump's supporters, but officials have refused to explain what they call an ongoing threat from right-wing militia groups. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday night approved a U.S. Capitol Police request to extend the Guard deployment, prompting howls from conservatives as the riot and response have become a political hot button.