The Republican governors of West Virginia and South Carolina are deploying hundreds of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., at the request of the administration of President Donald Trump, who has portrayed the nation's capital as awash in crime.

The moves come as federal agents and National Guard troops have begun to appear across the heavily Democratic city after President Trump's executive order earlier this week.

Governor Patrick Morrisey said in Saturday's statement: "West Virginia is proud to stand with President Trump in his effort to restore pride and beauty to our nation's capital. The men and women of our National Guard represent the best of our state, and this mission reflects our shared commitment to a strong and secure America."