Trump Renews Push for D.C. Federal Takeover Amid Carjacking Incident, Crime Data Contradicts Claims

President Donald Trump has once again threatened to assert federal control over Washington, D.C.’s government, following an attempted carjacking that injured a Department of Government Ethics (DOGE) staff member. In a Truth Social post, Mr. Trump declared, “If D.C. doesn’t get its act together, and quickly, we will have no choice but to take Federal control of the City. I am going to exert my powers, and FEDERALIZE this City.”

This renewed call stems from his long-standing criticism of the capital’s management, citing violent crime and what he describes as “incompetent leadership.” Trump has consistently raised the issue throughout 2025, including in February and July, and during his campaign.

However, the President’s authority to federalize the district is limited. Such a move would require an Act of Congress to overturn the 1973 Home Rule Act, which granted D.C. residents the power to elect local officials and enact their own laws. While Congress retains the power to amend or block D.C. laws, as seen in 2023 when a crime bill was nullified, repealing the Home Rule Act would likely face strong opposition from Senate Democrats.

Mr. Trump also suggested taking over the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department or deploying the National Guard. While the President commands the D.C. National Guard, and can assume control of the MPD under specific emergency conditions, legal experts warn such actions without clear justification could lead to court challenges.

Despite President Trump’s assertions of rampant crime, official data from the D.C. police indicates a different trend. As of August 6, 2025, violent crime in the capital has been declining. Carjacking incidents are down 37% from this time last year, with 186 reported so far in 2025. Robberies have dropped by 29%, homicides by 12%, and overall violent crime by 26% this year, following a 30-year low in violent crime recorded in 2024.

Beyond crime, Mr. Trump has also expressed concerns about the city’s “cleanliness,” establishing a task force in March 2025 to address “quality of life” issues like homelessness and graffiti. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has not yet commented on the President’s latest remarks, though the two have a history of public disagreements over city management and public safety.

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