WASHINGTON, Aug 12 (Alliance News): US President Donald Trump on Monday ordered the deployment of military and federal law enforcement to Washington, placing the city’s police under federal control in what he called an effort to curb violent crime and homelessness.
Calling it “Liberation Day in DC,” Trump said 800 National Guardsmen — “and much more if necessary” — would be sent onto the streets of the US capital, alongside federal agents from the FBI, ATF, DEA, US Marshals, Secret Service, Park Police, and Homeland Security.
“This is Liberation Day in DC, and we’re going to take our capital back,” Trump said, vowing fast arrests and relocation of homeless encampments “far from the Capital.”
The move comes despite police data showing violent crime has fallen in Washington between 2023 and 2024, following a post-pandemic surge.
Critics dismissed the move as political theater. “There is absolutely no need for the National Guard here,” said retiree Elizabeth Critchley, protesting outside the White House. “It’s all for show.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said additional “specialized” Guard units could be deployed, while Trump suggested New York and Chicago may be next.
Washington’s unique status gives Congress and the federal government significant authority over local affairs under the Home Rule Act of 1973.
Trump, who granted clemency to nearly 1,600 people involved in the 2021 Capitol riot, said the action was necessary to protect public safety, citing recent high-profile crimes. He said dozens of arrests had already been made since federal forces were increased last week.
A Gallup poll in October found 64% of Americans believe crime is rising, although FBI data shows violent crime nationwide is at its lowest in more than 50 years.
