Federal Control of DC Police Announced
Attorney General Pam Bondi and Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser, along with other top officials, recently met to discuss President Donald Trump’s directive to federalize the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
On Monday, President Trump ordered a temporary federal takeover of the MPD and announced that the National Guard would be deployed to tackle violent crime in the city. He described the situation as being exacerbated by “violent gangs,” “bloodthirsty criminals,” “roving mobs of wild youth,” and individuals in distress.
“I just concluded a productive meeting with DC @MayorBowser at the Department of Justice. We agreed that there is nothing more important than keeping residents and tourists in Washington, D.C. safe from deadly crime,” Bondi remarked in a post on Tuesday.
“At President Trump’s direction, @TheJusticeDept will work closely with D.C. city government and @DCPoliceDept to make Washington, D.C. safe again,” she added.
Bondi noted that Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, FBI Director Kash Patel, and other high-ranking officials were present during the meeting.
Afterwards, Bowser shared with reporters that her focus was on maximizing the support from the federal surge to enhance officer assistance.
“We have the best in the business and [Police Chief] Pamela Smith to lead that effort, ensuring that the federal resources are utilized effectively,” she mentioned.
Before the meeting, Bowser expressed her concern about the federal takeover, calling it “unsettling and unprecedented,” and reiterated her support for D.C. statehood.
“DC is unique. While we pay taxes and uphold the responsibilities of citizenship, we’re not a state. We don’t control the DC National Guard and we don’t have senators or full autonomy,” Bowser highlighted in a post.
“Following today’s announcement, we will adhere to the law, collaborate with federal officials, and continue our daily mission to keep D.C. secure and vibrant,” she added.
Bowser acknowledged that Trump has the authority to federalize the MPD temporarily under the Home Rule Act, but she emphasized that local police still report to her.
“I’m going to work every day to make sure it’s not a complete disaster. Although this is unsettling and unprecedented, I can’t say we’re entirely surprised given the previous rhetoric,” she stated.
Trump utilized Section 740(a) of the D.C. Home Rule Act, which allows him to control the D.C. police for 48 hours. However, he has sent a letter to Mayor Bowser and congressional leaders indicating he could extend that control to 30 days, delegating authority to Attorney General Bondi.
