Trump Puts DC Police “Under Federal Control,” Deploys National Guard — Here’s What You Need to Know
In a surprising and unprecedented move Monday, former President Donald Trump announced he is placing Washington, D.C.’s police department under direct federal control and activating the National Guard in the nation’s capital. This decision comes after an assault on a 19-year-old former government employee during a failed carjacking attempt, which Trump cited as a public safety emergency.
“Washington, D.C. will be LIBERATED today!” Trump declared boldly on his social media platform Truth Social, signaling a hard line stance on what he calls a surge in violent crime in the city. However, this action is stirring controversy — not just politically but legally — as it marks the first time a president has ever taken over the city’s police force since the Home Rule Act of 1973 was enacted.
What’s the Legal Backdrop? The Home Rule Act of 1973
Washington, D.C., is unique in that it’s not a state, but a federal district governed by a special arrangement known as the Home Rule Act. Passed in 1973, the law grants DC residents limited self-governance while giving Congress ultimate authority over the city. It also includes provisions for emergency federal intervention.
Under this act, the president can assume control over the city’s police department for up to 48 hours if he determines there is a “special emergency” that justifies federal involvement. This power is designed to be temporary, ensuring a balance between local autonomy and federal oversight.
But here’s the kicker: Trump’s move is historic. No president before him has exercised this emergency power to directly control DC’s police. Extending such control beyond two days would require notifying key congressional committee leaders and potentially getting Congress to pass a law — a tough feat given the current political gridlock.
What Prompted This Bold Step?
The immediate spark for Trump’s announcement was an incident earlier this month. On August 3, a 19-year-old former worker at the Department of Government Efficiency was assaulted during an attempted carjacking. Trump cited this as evidence of a deteriorating public safety situation.
While Trump has been vocal about rising crime in Washington, the actual data paints a more nuanced picture. In fact, crime rates in the city have been steadily declining since a spike in 2023. Homicides, carjackings, and violent crime overall have dropped significantly in 2024 and so far in 2025.
Crime Trends in DC: What the Numbers Say
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Homicides: After a jump to 274 murders in 2023 (the highest since 1997), the city saw a 32% decrease in 2024 with 187 reported homicides. This year, the downward trend continues with 99 homicides reported so far.
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Carjackings: These surged to 959 cases in 2023 but dropped sharply to about 500 in 2024. As of July 2025, there were only 188 incidents, marking the lowest monthly total since May 2020.
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Violent Crime: Overall, violent crime rates in DC have been on a steady decline for two years now, contrary to the perception of rising chaos.
Interestingly, this decline is not unique to DC. Other major cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, St. Louis, Baltimore, and Detroit—places historically known for high homicide rates—are also reporting significant drops in violent crime in recent years.
How Did Local Leaders React?
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser and the top brass of the DC Metropolitan Police Department reportedly had no advance warning of Trump’s plans. Bowser called the move “unsettling and unprecedented” at a press conference, adding that she believes Trump’s view of DC might be colored by his experience during the COVID era when crime rates temporarily surged.
Meanwhile, Greggory Pemberton, chairman of the DC Police Union, expressed support for the federal takeover, stating that the union believes “something needs to be done” about public safety. This division highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between local governance and federal oversight in DC.
National Guard and Federal Law Enforcement: What’s Going On?
Alongside taking control of the police, Trump ordered the deployment of 800 troops from the DC National Guard. Around 200 of these soldiers are tasked specifically with supporting law enforcement, handling roles from administrative work to a visible presence on the streets to deter crime.
But the federal footprint in DC goes beyond the National Guard. Several federal agencies operate within the city, including the FBI, which answers directly to the federal government. Over the weekend, Trump moved up to 130 FBI agents to patrol neighborhoods alongside DC police officers.
According to the Defense Department, the National Guard’s role is mostly supportive — helping with logistics, administration, and bolstering the police presence. This joint effort aims to send a clear message about federal commitment to public safety in the capital.
What’s Next? The Limits of Trump’s Authority
Trump’s control over the police department is temporary, limited to 48 hours under the Home Rule Act. To continue exercising this authority, he must formally notify Congress. Any extension beyond 30 days would require a law passed by Congress — a highly unlikely outcome given the current political environment.
This situation is further complicated by ongoing legal challenges. Just Monday, the Trump administration faced court proceedings regarding the legality of his previous National Guard deployments, including those in California during protests over immigration raids.
This move raises important questions about federal power, local autonomy, and the limits of presidential authority — especially in the unique jurisdiction of the nation’s capital.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
Taking direct federal control over DC’s police is not just a political headline; it’s a profound shift in how the capital is governed. The city is unlike any other U.S. municipality because of its special legal status, blending local governance with federal oversight.
Trump’s announcement disrupts decades of practice and sets a new precedent. While supporters may applaud a tougher stance on crime, critics argue it undermines local democracy and politicizes public safety efforts.
Key Takeaways
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Historic first: No president before Trump has taken direct control of DC’s police force.
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Temporary power: The Home Rule Act allows 48 hours of control, with congressional oversight needed for longer.
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Mixed crime picture: Despite Trump’s claims, violent crime in DC is declining after a 2023 spike.
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National Guard involvement: 800 troops activated to assist police, including FBI agents patrolling with local cops.
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Local leaders blindsided: Mayor Bowser calls the move “unsettling,” while the police union shows cautious support.
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Legal challenges ahead: Court battles over the legality of Trump’s National Guard deployments continue.
Final Thoughts
This development adds a new chapter to the ongoing debate over public safety, federal power, and local control in Washington, DC. It also reflects broader national tensions around crime, law enforcement, and governance as cities across the U.S. grapple with public safety concerns.
While Trump’s declaration of “liberation” may energize his base, it also sets up a complex legal and political battle ahead — one that could redefine how America’s capital is policed and governed in the years to come.
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