U.S. President Donald Trump has been vocal about the possibility of taking full federal control of Washington, D.C., in an effort to combat crime, despite city officials noting a decline in criminal activity. Trump recently outlined plans to federalize the city’s police force and deploy National Guard troops as part of his administration’s response. While Trump holds some authority over both the police force and National Guard in the capital, a complete federal takeover would likely face legal challenges.
The U.S. Constitution, established in 1787, designated a federal capital district to house the government permanently. Congress was granted full legislative control over the district, although it has historically delegated some municipal governance responsibilities to other bodies.
The Home Rule Act, passed by Congress in 1973, granted Washington, D.C., residents the right to elect a mayor and council with limited autonomy to enact local laws. However, Congress retains oversight of the city’s budget and can nullify local legislation when deemed necessary.
In terms of security, Trump wields significant authority over the D.C. National Guard, comprising 2,700 troops who report directly to the president. While Trump announced the deployment of 800 National Guard members, the actual number on duty at any given time is expected to be between 100 to 200 individuals, according to the Army.
Additionally, approximately 500 federal law enforcement officers from agencies such as the FBI, ATF, DEA, ICE, and the Marshals Service are being deployed to assist with patrolling in Washington. Guard troops will operate under Title 32 authority, allowing them to engage in law enforcement activities within the city.
Regarding the police force, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser holds authority over the Metropolitan Police Department. However, in cases of emergency, the Home Rule Act permits a U.S. president to assume control of the MPD for federal purposes for a limited period. Trump invoked this provision recently, but a presidential takeover is restricted to 30 days unless extended by Congress.
Trump’s administration has justified the need for federal management of the police department by citing a perceived “crime emergency” in the city. This claim was exemplified by an alleged assault involving individuals affiliated with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, leading to arrests.
In a separate initiative, Trump has expressed intentions to relocate homeless individuals away from Washington, though specific plans have not been disclosed. Trump’s administration has the legal authority to clear homeless encampments on federal parkland, an action that was also carried out during President Joe Biden’s term with the support of Mayor Bowser.
While Trump’s administration can enforce ordinances against homelessness following a 2024 Supreme Court decision, legal experts emphasize that individuals cannot be compelled to leave the city solely due to their lack of housing.