Washington, D.C. – Former President Donald Trump has taken unprecedented action in the nation’s capital, placing the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control and deploying 800 National Guard troops. He described the move as “historic” and aimed at combating rising crime and homelessness.
Federal Takeover of D.C. Police
Trump invoked a rarely used provision of the D.C. Home Rule Act that allows the president to assume direct control of the city’s police force. Normally, this authority lasts 48 hours unless extended by notifying certain members of Congress. Trump has not said whether he plans to extend the order.
Flanked by top officials — Attorney General Pam Bondi, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, FBI Director Kash Patel, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro — Trump announced that law enforcement will immediately launch targeted operations against gangs, drug traffickers, and organized crime networks.
National Guard Deployment
The initial deployment includes 800 National Guard troops, with the possibility of adding more if necessary. Unlike other states, Washington D.C. does not have control over its own National Guard, which operates directly under presidential authority.
Public Safety Emergency Declaration
Trump declared a “public safety emergency” in the capital, despite Justice Department data showing that violent crime in D.C. hit a 30-year low in 2024.
Alongside crime enforcement measures, Trump said his administration will dismantle homeless encampments across the city. While promising assistance for those in need, he insisted that the capital will not be allowed to “turn into a wasteland.”
Criticism of D.C. Justice System
Throughout the press conference, Trump criticized D.C.’s no-cash-bail policy, calling it a “disaster,” and urged Republican lawmakers to help repeal it. Jeanine Pirro claimed that the juvenile justice system is too lenient, stating that young offenders often face little more than “family court, yoga, and arts and crafts.” She vowed immediate changes.
Upcoming Putin Meeting
Trump also took questions about his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, set for Friday in Alaska. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will not attend, but Trump said he would speak with him if a “fair” ceasefire proposal emerges. He did not rule out restoring U.S.-Russia trade relations in the future.
About The Author
