President Donald Trump said Wednesday he would approve the approval of the District of Columbia under direct federal control, throwing his support behind Congressional efforts to acquire the country's capital.
Speaking to reporters on Air Force 1, Trump complained about crime and homelessness in the district, saying, “I think we should take over Washington, D.C. — we'll make it safe.”
He added: “I think we should govern the Columbia district.”
Under the conditions of the city's home rules authorities, council has already rejected all DC laws and can completely overturn them.
Some Congressional Republicans have eroded the city's limited autonomy for decades more, and as it was established, they were placed under direct federal control and eroded it.
Trump said he personally likes Columbia district mayor Muriel Bowser, but complained about the city's governance.
“They're not at work,” Trump said.
“Too many crimes, too many – too many tents on the grass – these spectacular grasses.”
He insisted that when hosting foreign leaders in Washington he cannot have a sight of homelessness.
“You can't make it happen,” Trump said.
“You cannot have a tent in all your beautiful things – your once magnificent square and lawn.”
