Crime in Washington has sparked new federal action. On Monday, President Donald Trump revealed his latest public safety strategy. He announced plans to deploy the D.C. National Guard and take control of the Metropolitan Police Department. This announcement followed the assault of a former government staffer in Logan Circle last week. Since then, Trump has voiced growing concern over the safety of the nation’s capital.
Despite the urgency, many D.C. residents remain skeptical. One local said, “This doesn’t make sense. It’s a terrible idea.” Others echoed similar concerns, stating that local control should remain with D.C., not the federal government. Previously, Trump federalized the California National Guard during anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles. That decision also bypassed state authority. It marked the first unilateral National Guard action in more than six decades.
Now, Trump’s latest move in D.C. mirrors that same controversial approach. While some residents support increased security, others reject the idea entirely. “I think D.C. should govern and police itself,” one resident said. “The federal government is overstepping.”
Another D.C. local criticized Trump directly. “Anything Trump does is garbage,” they said. Still, not all opinions were negative. Some residents voiced strong support for the plan. “It’s time for action,” said one woman. “The kids are running wild. It’s not safe anymore.” Another resident added, “I come home before sundown. I’m scared I’ll get robbed.”
Crime in Washington continues to divide opinions. Official data shows a 30-year low in violent crime. Yet many locals feel less safe than ever. “I don’t know what numbers to believe,” one person said. “One report says crime is down, then it feels out of control.”
Some suggested D.C. should gain statehood to decide its own future. “There’s no way Trump should control anything,” said one frustrated resident. Even among critics, most agree something must change. “Safety is clearly an issue,” a local said. “But this isn’t the way to fix it.” As Trump pushes forward, crime in Washington remains a complex and emotional issue. Both action and accountability will likely shape the debate ahead.
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