WASHINGTON, D.C. (WDNews) – President Donald Trump said he is considering federalizing the Washington, D.C., police department as part of a broader effort to address rising crime and safety issues in the nation’s capital.
Speaking to reporters, Trump described D.C.’s crime rate as “ridiculous” and pointed to recent violent incidents, including an assault on a young man earlier this week.
“We want to have a great, safe capital, and we are going to have it,” Trump said. “That includes cleanliness and other things… We’re going to beautify the city, and we’re going to make it beautiful.”
The president said potential measures could include bringing in the National Guard “very quickly” and addressing issues like graffiti, litter, and deteriorating infrastructure.
Trump also confirmed that his administration is reviewing whether to push Congress to overturn the D.C. Home Rule Act, which grants the city limited self-governance.
“We have to run D.C. — this has to be the best-run place in the country, not the worst-run place,” he said. “You’re going to be safe walking on the streets, you are not going to get mugged.”
The discussion comes amid ongoing debates over the balance of local autonomy and federal oversight in the District of Columbia.
