President Donald Trump is exerting his influence over Washington, D.C., making strides to reshape the city’s governance and law enforcement amid ongoing concerns about crime. As first reported by Fox News Digital, House Republicans are collaborating with the White House to draft a series of bills aimed at addressing the numerous challenges the capital faces.
Late Tuesday night, Trump hinted at these developments with a post on Truth Social, confirming that both House and Senate leaders are actively working with him on a “Comprehensive Crime Bill.” He emphasized the urgency of the situation, proclaiming, “It’s what our country needs, and NOW! More to follow.” This statement reflects his commitment to repositioning governance in D.C. under his authority.
In this context, the proposal is gaining traction among GOP lawmakers. House allies of Trump have been pursuing measures that would enhance his control over D.C.’s police force. This strategy capitalizes on the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973, which permits the president to federalize the police force for up to 48 hours, extendable to 30 days with proper notification. Any continuation beyond that period requires a resolution from both chambers of Congress. Trump has previously utilized this presidential power, a move that reinforces his authority within the capital.
Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee has taken the initiative by introducing legislation to modify the D.C. Home Rule Act, allowing the president to extend this emergency state indefinitely until the city is deemed safe. He articulated his vision for the bill, saying, “I sent it to [House Majority Leader Steve Scalise] after we drafted it. He liked the proposal, so when we get back, we’ll sort through the various ideas and approaches and see which one is best.” Ogles added, “Obviously, I’ll advocate for mine, but… whatever keeps the people safe.”
Ogles’ approach not only aims to eliminate the current 30-day limit but also mandates that the White House provides Congress with updates every 30 days, thus ensuring adherence to constitutional protocols. While Scalise’s office declined to comment on the specifics, Ogles remains optimistic about garnering support for his bill.
Other lawmakers, including Reps. Anna Paulina Luna from Florida and Andy Biggs from Arizona, have introduced similar measures that echo Ogles’ call for extended federalization of D.C. police. “The fact is, is that, you know, we do have home rule. It’s well within our right and authority,” Luna stated regarding the legitimacy of their proposals. “Frankly, we’re doing it not just for us, but also for the actual civilians in the Washington, D.C., area.” Luna’s legislation, like Ogles’, seeks to stretch Trump’s capabilities to manage D.C. law enforcement for as long as he sees fit.
Biggs’ bill proposes a six-month extension for the president’s control over D.C. police, once again highlighting the unique legislative and operational control Congress wields over the federal district. Supporters assert that federal intervention has already led to notable declines in homicide rates since Trump assumed responsibility for policing. They suggest this model could soon expand to other American cities grappling with crime.
However, this push has attracted criticism, particularly from Democrats who argue that such measures infringe upon the autonomy of the D.C. populace. A White House official countered these criticisms, revealing that efforts to address the root causes of crime remain a top priority for the administration. “Efforts to address some of the underlying causes of the DC crime problem will be a topic of sustained focus for the administration,” the official stated, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the capital’s status as “the envy of the world.”
The unfolding developments point to a significant moment in the ongoing political battle surrounding law enforcement policies and local governance in the nation’s capital. With Trump’s allies mobilizing to secure enduring changes, the dynamics of power in Washington, D.C., may soon reflect his broader agenda as they seek to navigate the complexities of crime management and federal oversight.
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