Trump Seeks Long Term Control of DC Police, Warns Putin of Severe Consequences
The White House says Washington, DC’s police have been placed under direct federal control and National Guard troops deployed. President Trump now says he will ask Congress to extend that control “long‑term,” while separately warning that Russia will face “very severe consequences” if talks do not produce a ceasefire in Ukraine. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
What Happened
- Federalization Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to put the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control. The statute allows emergency control that expires after 30 days unless Congress enacts an extension. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Ask for Extension He said he will seek “long‑term extensions” from Congress and floated using a national‑emergency route if needed.
- Guard & Arrests Federal agents and Guard units increased their presence across the city, with officials touting dozens of arrests during the surge.
Local & Legal Context
DC’s mayor and local officials call the move “unsettling and unprecedented,” emphasizing that violent crime has fallen compared with the recent peak. Under the Home Rule Act, Congress reviews DC laws and can extend or end emergency control of the police.
| Key Rule | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Home Rule Act §740 | Allows the president to direct DC police “for federal purposes”; default limit 30 days unless extended by a joint resolution of Congress. |
| Congressional Role | Can approve extensions or act to restore local control; DC has no voting members in Congress. |
Why It Matters
Federal control of a local police department is rare and politically charged. The administration argues DC faces a “crime crisis,” while city leaders dispute that characterization and warn about the precedent for federal power over local policing.
What’s Next in DC
- Watch for a White House crime bill tailored to DC and any formal request to Congress for an extension beyond 30 days.
- Expect more National Guard and federal patrols “over the days to come,” according to administration briefings.
Foreign Policy Link: Warning to Moscow
In parallel, Trump signaled there would be “very severe consequences” if Russia does not move toward an agreement to end the war in Ukraine, ahead of talks with Vladimir Putin. He has also floated a follow‑up meeting involving President Zelenskyy.
Quick FAQ
How long can federal control last? By default, 30 days. Longer control requires a joint resolution of Congress, unless the administration asserts other emergency authorities—likely to be legally contested.
Does this change DC’s status? No. It highlights the limits of DC’s autonomy under federal law and the ongoing political fight over DC statehood.
Will other cities be targeted? The president suggested other Democratic‑led cities could face pressure to change laws, indicating a broader policy push.
Editor’s note: This explainer synthesizes reporting from multiple outlets and will be updated as Congress and the courts respond.