Trump Excludes Local Officials from D.C. Task Force

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to establish the 'D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force,' which aims to address crime, immigration, and beautification in Washington, D.C. This task force will involve leaders from various federal agencies but notably does not include local D.C. officials such as Mayor Muriel Bowser. Key initiatives include increasing law enforcement presence, maximizing immigration enforcement, expediting concealed carry permits, and addressing fare evasion on the Metro. The order also mandates the removal of graffiti and homeless encampments to enhance the city's appearance. While the executive order aims to improve public safety, some D.C. residents and officials have criticized it as an overreach and an insult to local governance. Despite a reported decrease in crime rates in 2024, the administration argues that crime remains at historically high levels compared to earlier years.