Crime in Washington has become the center of a new political storm. President Donald Trump announced strong federal actions Monday. Speaking from a press conference, Trump confirmed the deployment of 800 National Guard troops to the nation’s capital. He also declared federal control over Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department. According to Trump, these moves aim to “restore law, order, and public safety.”
Trump emphasized that the troops “will be allowed to do their job properly.” He appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi to oversee police operations in the city. The District of Columbia National Guard falls under federal control, unlike state-based units. Additionally, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that Army Secretary Dan Driscoll will lead this deployment. Hegseth suggested more units could join soon.
“You will see them on Washington’s streets this week,” Hegseth said. “They will be strong, they will support local law enforcement.” This decision follows a violent incident on August 3. A former Department of Government Efficiency staffer was assaulted in Logan Circle. In response, Trump floated the idea of deploying the National Guard. He labeled crime levels in Washington as “ridiculous” and out of control.
On Truth Social, Trump promised the city would be “LIBERATED” from what he described as “Crime, Savagery, Filth, and Scum.” He added, “The days of hurting innocent people are OVER!” Despite these alarming claims, data tells another story. The crime in Washington has declined in 2025 compared to the previous year, as in, Violent crime dropped 26%. Assaults with dangerous weapons decreased 20%. Homicides are also down by 12%.
Mayor Muriel Bowser disputed Trump’s narrative. She warned against exaggerated comparisons to war zones. “Any comparison to a war-torn country is hyperbolic and false,” Bowser stated. Still, Trump insists that federal intervention is necessary. His legal authority to take over the police could face court challenges. Emergency declarations must meet specific criteria. Whether crime in Washington qualifies remains a heated legal question.
As tensions rise, the city stands at a critical crossroads—between federal control and local governance.
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