Trump Threatens Federal Takeover of NYC, D.C.

President Donald Trump has floated the idea of a federal takeover of both New York City and Washington, D.C., citing concerns about crime and city governance. Trump specifically targeted Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, a leading candidate in the New York mayoral race, calling him a 'communist' and warning of consequences if he wins. During a White House cabinet meeting, Trump claimed the administration is 'testing' the possibility of federal control in D.C., despite recent data showing crime rates are declining there. He asserted that the White House has 'tremendous power' to intervene in city affairs, but did not clarify the legal basis for such actions. The proposal has reignited debates over federal versus local control, with critics calling Trump's rhetoric authoritarian. The developments occur as Mamdani's popularity rises and Trump continues to argue that federal oversight would reduce crime and improve city management.