DC Mayor Stands Strong Against Trump’s Police Takeover Threat Amid Rising Crime Concerns

Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, D.C., recently spoke out against President Trump’s comments about federal control over the city. She emphasized the importance of local authority over the police and expressed her worries about the deployment of the D.C. National Guard. Bowser also pointed to a significant decrease in violent crime in the city, which counters Trump’s claims of escalating violence.

Last week, Trump ordered various federal law enforcement agencies to boost their presence in D.C. after an incident involving a former White House staffer. Reports confirmed the deployment of nearly 450 federal officers to the capital.

In a social media post, Trump stated he would “make our Capital safer” by addressing homelessness and crime. Bowser responded during an MSNBC interview, suggesting Trump might announce an increase in federal law enforcement. However, she argued the city needs more federal prosecutors and judges rather than a show of force.

Bowser also dismissed comparisons made by a White House official who described D.C. as “more violent than Baghdad.” She pointed out that, although crime had risen in 2023, violent incidents had dropped by 26% overall compared to last year.

In response to Trump’s threats to deploy the National Guard, Bowser expressed her disapproval. “They’re not law enforcement officials,” she stated, calling for more productive approaches.

Historically, federal intervention in D.C. has occurred before, such as during the protests following George Floyd’s death in 2020. However, Bowser argued that the legal basis for such actions doesn’t currently exist in D.C.

On a community level, Police Chief Pamela Smith announced a juvenile curfew in parts of the city due to safety concerns, banning gatherings of more than nine juveniles late at night. This is part of a broader city-wide curfew aimed at addressing safety issues.

Bowser’s ongoing conversation with Trump suggests a willingness to collaborate on city matters, but she firmly believes in maintaining local governance.



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