Trump Assumes Control Over Washington DC Police Deploying 800 National Guard

President Donald Trump has taken the unprecedented step of federalizing the District of Columbia's Metropolitan Police Department and deploying 800 National Guard troops to Washington, DC, claiming the city faces severe crime and disorder. Trump described the move as a "historic action" to restore safety and control, labeling Washington DC as one of the most dangerous cities globally, despite crime statistics showing a 30-year low in violent crime. The intervention, set to last 30 days, has drawn sharp criticism from DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, who called it "unsettling and unprecedented" and argued the city has made significant public safety improvements post-COVID. Bowser emphasized DC's limited home rule and lack of full autonomy, highlighting the city's efforts in reducing crime by 35% in 2024 and 26% in the first part of 2025, and advocated for full statehood to secure greater democratic control. The federal takeover has raised broader concerns about political independence, democratic access, and civil liberties in the racially diverse capital, leading to protests and heightened tensions. This move marks a significant clash between federal authority and local governance, with Bowser seeking dialogue with federal officials while urging residents to recognize the city's achievements despite the federal intervention.