Why is Trump Deploying National Guard to DC? President Declares Public Safety Emergency

President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of 800 National Guard troops to Washington DC and taken control of the city’s police force, citing what he described as “complete and total lawlessness.” The move, announced Monday, follows his declaration of a “public safety emergency” aimed at tackling crime and homelessness in the capital.

Trump’s announcement comes despite Metropolitan Police Department statistics showing that violent crime is currently at a 30-year low. Homicides in DC fell by 32% from 2023 to 2024 and have dropped another 12% so far this year.

Flanked by US Attorney General Pam Bondi—who will temporarily oversee the city’s police department—Trump said the capital has been “taken over by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals” as well as “drugged-out maniacs and homeless people.” He described the deployment as “Liberation Day in DC.”

Mayor Muriel Bowser firmly rejected Trump’s claims, calling the move “unsettling and unprecedented.” She acknowledged a nationwide post-Covid crime spike in 2023 but said the city has since implemented laws that removed violent offenders from the streets, leading to a “huge decrease” in crime.

Why Trump Says the National Guard is Needed in DC

Trump argued the National Guard is essential to restore order and ensure safety for residents, federal employees, and visiting dignitaries. He cited recent violent incidents, including an attack on a former Department of Government Efficiency employee and assaults on federal officials.

Under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, the president can take control of the city’s police in emergency situations for up to 30 days, with written notice to Congress required for any control beyond 48 hours. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that Guard troops will begin arriving by the end of the week, with 100–200 deployed at a time to assist law enforcement.

Bowser Pushes Back Against Federal Takeover

Mayor Bowser emphasized that the legal conditions for such federal intervention do not currently exist, warning that National Guard enforcement of local laws could undermine trust and stability. She also highlighted progress on homelessness, which has declined by nearly 20% in the past five years according to the nonprofit So Others Might Eat.

Local advocacy groups echoed Bowser’s concerns, arguing that Trump’s proposal to relocate homeless individuals would merely shift the problem to less-equipped communities. Outside the White House, protesters gathered chanting “hands off DC” and “protect home rule.”

Trump’s decision marks the first National Guard deployment to DC since the Capitol riot in 2021, and his second deployment this year following a June mobilization to Los Angeles during unrest over immigration raids.

You Must Know:

Q: Why is Trump deploying National Guard to DC?
Trump says it’s to address violent crime, homelessness, and threats to public safety. He cites recent attacks and describes the capital as lawless, though city crime data shows a downward trend.

Q: Is crime in Washington DC actually rising?
No. Official statistics show violent crime is at a 30-year low, with homicides down significantly since 2023.

Q: How long can Trump control DC’s police force?
Under the Home Rule Act, up to 30 days, with written notice to Congress if control lasts beyond 48 hours.

Q: What is Mayor Bowser’s position?
She opposes the federal takeover, arguing it’s unnecessary and undermines local governance, while noting crime reductions and progress on homelessness.

Q: How many National Guard troops will be in DC?
A total of 800 troops have been activated, though only 100–200 will be deployed at a time to support law enforcement.