On August 11, President Donald Trump declared a public safety emergency in Washington, DC, invoking the Home Rule Act to deploy National Guard troops in the nation’s capital.
During a significant press conference, Trump asserted that if necessary, military intervention would be on the table as part of the federal response to what he described as escalating violence in the city.
The President announced that the Metropolitan Police Department would be placed under federal control, with Attorney General Pam Bondi assigned to oversee the department.
This announcement comes despite official data indicating that violent crime rates in the capital reached a 30-year low in 2024, according to the U.S. Justice Department.
Initially, 800 National Guardsmen will be deployed to assist local law enforcement, with the possibility of increasing the number if the situation demands.
The White House confirmed that Trump signed an Executive Order declaring a crime emergency in the District of Columbia, aimed at protecting public servants, citizens, and tourists, and ensuring the safe functioning of the federal government.
The order utilizes the President’s authority under the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, allowing him to compel the Mayor to make Metropolitan Police Department services available to federal authorities.
Furthermore, under the terms of the order, Pam Bondi will have the authority to recommend any further actions or the removal of emergency measures as the situation evolves.
During the press conference, Trump expressed a strong resolve to combat what he termed the takeover of the city by ‘violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals’, as well as issues related to homelessness and public safety.
He referred to the situation in the capital as unacceptable and vowed to reclaim the city for its residents.
In his remarks, Trump highlighted a commitment to eliminate what he identified as slum areas, acknowledging the potentially controversial nature of this statement but standing firm in his resolve.
‘We have slums here. We’re getting rid of them. I know it’s not politically correct,’ Trump stated, underscoring his determination to take action.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the mobilization of the DC National Guard, announcing that citizens would soon see the troops in various areas of Washington.
FBI Director Kash Patel reinforced the message, stating, ‘We’re going to clean up Washington, DC. We’re going to do it the right way, the lawful way.’
This initiative follows a recent violent incident involving an employee of Trump’s Department of Operations for Government Efficiency, Edward Coristine, who was assaulted by a group of teenagers.
In response to the growing concerns over safety, Trump shared on Truth Social that crime and disorder would quickly diminish, reiterating his pledge to make the capital great again.
‘Washington, D.C. will be LIBERATED today! Crime, Savagery, Filth, and Scum will DISAPPEAR. I will, MAKE OUR CAPITAL GREAT AGAIN!’ he wrote, emphasizing the end of ruthless violence against innocent citizens.
With his administration’s renewed focus on public safety, President Trump aims to restore order and live up to his promise of making Washington, DC, a safer place for all.
image source from:wionews