President Trump Takes Bold Action to Restore Safety, Federalizes Metropolitan Police

In a decisive move to restore law and order, President Donald Trump notified Monday of the deployment of 800 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., while placing the city’s Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control. The action comes as the President vows to crack down on crime and protect innocent Americans.

“We’re sending in the National Guard to restore law, order, and public safety here in Washington, D.C.,” Trump told reporters. “And this time, they’ll have the full authority to get the job done right.”

Federal Control for a Safer Capital

Under Trump’s order, the Metropolitan Police Department will now answer to Attorney General Pam Bondi. This historic step, the President says, will ensure officers can act without political roadblocks and tackle criminals head-on.

The National Guard, usually overseen by state governors, is often called upon for natural disasters or emergencies. But Trump has made it clear he is willing to use them in other crises—including bypassing California Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this year to send troops during violent immigration riots.

Defense Officials Promise Strong Presence

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that Army Secretary Dan Driscoll will oversee the D.C. deployment and hinted that additional troops could be on the way.

“You will see them flowing into the streets of Washington in the coming week,” Hegseth said. “We are ready to bring in more units and specialized forces. They will be strong, they will be tough, and they will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with law enforcement.”

Trump: ‘The Days of Crime Are OVER’

Earlier Monday, Trump took to Truth Social, promising that Washington would be “LIBERATED” from “Crime, Savagery, Filth, and Scum.” He declared, “The days of ruthlessly killing, or hurting, innocent people, are OVER!”

This decision comes after the August 3 assault on a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer in D.C.’s Logan Circle—an attack that the President cited as proof that urgent action is needed.

“The rate of muggings, killings, and everything else is ridiculous,” Trump said. “We’re not going to let it continue.”

Legal Fight May Be Coming

While temporary federal control of a city’s police department is legal in emergencies, political opponents are signaling they may challenge the move in court—arguing that D.C.’s current crime statistics don’t justify the action.

But Trump’s team says the situation goes beyond numbers and that the real issue is restoring confidence for residents who feel unsafe.

Mayor Pushes Back, Crime Data Disputed

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser blasted Trump’s move, calling it “hyperbolic and false.” She also questioned whether the National Guard would be the “most efficient use” of resources.

City statistics show violent crime down 26% this year compared to 2024, with assaults involving dangerous weapons down 20% and homicides down 12%. However, many residents insist that crimes are more brazen and public safety feels worse than the data suggests.

Law and Order Front and Center

For President Trump, the message is clear: the federal government will take decisive action when local leaders fail to protect their citizens.

The deployment of National Guard troops to America’s capital is not only a show of force—it’s a signal to the rest of the nation that restoring law and order remains a top priority in his administration.