WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, he may again declare a national emergency to place Washington, D.C.’s police under federal control, citing concerns over the city’s cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
In a Truth Social post published around 1 a.m., Trump credited his August emergency order with reducing violent crime in the capital and said ending cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement would cause crime to rise. “I’ll call a National Emergency, and Federalize, if necessary,” Trump wrote.
On Aug. 11, Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to temporarily direct the Metropolitan Police Department and deploy National Guard support. That authority expired after 30 days unless extended by Congress.
Mayor Muriel Bowser and other city leaders opposed the takeover, arguing it undermined home rule. They also have long limited the city’s cooperation with ICE under local policy, a stance Trump highlighted in his post.
Crime statistics show violent crime in Washington has declined compared with the same period in 2024, but not to a “virtually zero” level. Analysts caution that crime trends are influenced by multiple factors, including ongoing policing strategies, community programs, and broader national trends.
Legal experts say any new emergency declaration would likely face court challenges, testing the scope of presidential authority to override the city’s elected government.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
