Mayor Bowser Responds to Federal Takeover of Local Police

On Tuesday, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) expressed her strong opposition to the federal government’s decision to take control of the Washington Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), labeling the move an “authoritarian push.”

“This is a time when the community needs to step up. We all need to contribute how we can to protect the city, maintain autonomy, and uphold local rules. We have to push through this situation, elect a Democrat to step in, and create a safeguard against this dictatorial move,” she stated.

“Parents should keep an eye on their kids and ensure they’re not congregating in groups, as they’re being targeted,” she warned.

President Trump announced on Monday that he would send the National Guard to assist local law enforcement in patrolling the nation’s capital, claiming the district faces “violent” crime issues and that the administration would temporarily oversee the MPD.

While crime rates in Washington have declined compared to last year and 2023, the murder rate for 2024 has surpassed that of the year before the COVID-19 pandemic. The city has hit a grim milestone, reaching 100 murders so far this year.

This decision has garnered support from Greg Pemberton, the head of the DC Police Union, who described it as a necessary step to combat the city’s “out of control” crime situation.

“We stand with the president; Washington, D.C. cannot maintain this trajectory. Crime is spiraling out of control, and our officers are stretched to their limits,” Pemberton remarked.

Bowser’s criticisms arrive despite her earlier, more conciliatory comments following the president’s announcement. “I will do my best to prevent this from becoming a complete disaster,” she said to reporters on Monday.

On Tuesday, she met with Attorney General Pam Bondi, agreeing to “work closely” together moving forward.

During a guest appearance on “The Breakfast Club” radio show, Bowser reiterated her calls for cooperation, both locally and at the state level.