Stop the federal takeover of D.C. policing now

A Drastic Action Without Justification President Trump’s decision to assume control of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) of Washington, District of Columbia (D.C.) represents an extreme federal intervention that is not warranted by the facts. Current crime statistics show that both violent and overall crime in the city are significantly lower than last year. The claim of an escalating public safety crisis simply does not match the data. Threat to Home Rule and Local Self-Governance The District of Columbia Home Rule Act was designed to give D.C. residents the ability to manage their own local affairs, including control over law enforcement. By invoking a rarely used provision to place MPD under federal command, the administration has undermined that principle. Even though D.C.’s status gives the federal government certain legal powers not available over states, our democratic tradition favors local accountability in policing. Risks of Politicized Policing Removing MPD from the oversight of D.C.’s elected leaders severs the direct link between law enforcement and the community it serves. It opens the door to civil liberties violations, reduces public trust, and injects partisan politics into public safety. These risks are compounded when the justification for intervention is based on misrepresented crime trends rather than on real and pressing threats. Actions Congress Should Take Hold immediate oversight hearings to obtain the legal justifications, operational plans, and crime data that led to this takeover. Prohibit any extension of federal control beyond the initial 30 days without compelling, independently verified evidence of necessity. Advance legislation to restore local control over the Metropolitan Police Department and the District of Columbia National Guard, ensuring they are accountable to D.C.’s elected leaders rather than the federal executive. Use appropriations and oversight authority to prevent funding for unnecessary or prolonged federalization of local policing. Conclusion This action is unnecessary, unjustified, and damaging to the democratic governance of our nation’s capital. I urge you to oppose the federal takeover, demand transparency, and support legislation that restores local policing authority to the people of D.C. through their elected officials.