United States: President Donald Trump is stepping up his push to crack down on crime in Washington, DC, threatening a federal takeover and announcing that FBI agents will begin patrolling the city’s streets. While this marks a rare move for the FBI, most local leaders are staying publicly supportive — or at least silent — about his actions.

Over the weekend, Trump launched a wave of federal law enforcement in the capital, with up to 450 officers expected to be part of the operation, according to a White House official. This week’s plan calls for about 130 FBI agents to work alongside DC police, driving through neighborhoods and running license plates to check for stolen cars or outstanding warrants — a task not usually done by the FBI.

On Sunday, Trump previewed a Monday morning press conference, claiming the event “will, essentially, stop violent crime in Washington, DC.” In a social media post, he wrote, “I’m going to make our Capital safer and more beautiful than it ever was before. The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY. We will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital. The Criminals, you don’t have to move out. We’re going to put you in jail where you belong,” according to the reports by CNN.

Crime in Washington DC is at a 30 year low. trump's plan to "take over" DC is a practice run for declaring Martial law. Wake up people. We can't let him get away with destroying our country.

Also, @realDonaldTrump is a pedophile. pic.twitter.com/Mdmu1bv4X4

— Inspector Gadget (@Onemoretime2212) August 11, 2025

Trump’s statements about crime paint a much darker picture than city data shows. According to the DC Metropolitan Police Department, overall crime so far this year is actually down compared to last year, reflecting a broader national trend.

Mayor Bowser’s Careful Response

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser broke her public silence on Trump’s “take over” threats after nearly a week. Speaking on MSNBC, she said the city is not experiencing a major crime spike and reminded viewers that the DC National Guard is under the president’s authority. Bowser emphasized “shared priorities” with Trump in fighting crime and avoided direct criticism, instead thanking federal agencies for their cooperation.

Most DC Council members also stayed quiet. Councilmember Christina Henderson pointed to another issue — a shortage of judges — as a bigger factor behind crime trends.

This approach is a noticeable shift from the open clashes Bowser had with Trump during his first term, when she famously had “Black Lives Matter” painted on the street outside the White House. Now, her strategy appears to be avoiding direct fights while still gently countering his claims about DC crime.

Federal Cooperation and Politics

DC police regularly work with federal agencies like the US Park Police, Secret Service, and Capitol Police, especially during large events. Maintaining these relationships may be part of Bowser’s motivation for keeping a measured tone, according to sources familiar with her thinking, as reported by CNN.

Trump is going to traffic homeless people. Many won’t have ID, and will likely end up incarcerated with immigrants who are being arrested, trafficked and detained, without due process.

He’s not going to stop with Washington DC. pic.twitter.com/xrtJrkkfPY

— Melanie D'Arrigo (@DarrigoMelanie) August 10, 2025

Trump’s focus on DC crime has ebbed and flowed over the years. Recently, US Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro publicly praised Bowser for working with federal partners.

In March, Bowser ordered the removal of the Black Lives Matter Plaza mural after Republicans in Congress threatened to block funding for the city. At the time, she told CNN, “We have bigger fish to fry,” pointing to the district’s economic challenges under Trump.

Bowser has also partnered with Trump on certain projects, such as announcing that the NFL Draft will come to DC in 2027 and supporting federal efforts to fix and improve city parks.

What Could Happen Next

Trump first floated the idea of a federal takeover of DC in February, saying the city needed “law and order.” His renewed push comes after the attempted carjacking of Edward Coristine, a former Department of Government Efficiency employee.

Following that incident, Trump said he was considering taking over the Metropolitan Police Department, deploying the National Guard, and even overturning DC’s Home Rule — the law that allows the city to manage much of its own governance, according to CNN.

Under Home Rule, the president can take control of the DC police for up to 48 hours if he declares an emergency that requires federal use of the force. To extend control beyond that, he must notify key congressional committees, and anything over 30 days would require a new law passed by Congress — a tough hurdle in a divided Senate.

While a full federal takeover of DC’s government remains unlikely without congressional approval, Trump’s stepped-up law enforcement surge signals that he is serious about testing the limits of his power in the nation’s capital.