Trump Aims to Control Washington Police

• The Trump administration is seeking to control the police in Washington.
• The city mayor and the attorney general have filed a lawsuit against Trump’s actions.
• The National Guard is activated to support the local police.

In Washington, efforts are underway by President Donald Trump’s administration to establish control over the local police. Federal troops patrol the National Mall and the areas surrounding the capital, as Trump aims to reduce crime rates while activating the National Guard.

On August 14, 2025, U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced the appointment of a new police commissioner, which provoked a reaction from the Washington administration. Mayor Muriel Bowser and District Attorney Brian Schwalb filed a lawsuit, asserting that the actions of the administration exceed its legal authority.

The lawsuit pertains to Trump’s attempt to appoint the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as the police commissioner of Washington, who, according to Schwalb’s words, is a "foreign takeover" of the local police. Trump is relying on legislation that allows him to have greater control over the capital, as Washington is a federal district.

On Friday, August 15, after several court hearings, a compromise was reached, according to which the police leadership would remain with the local chief of police, but Bondi indicated that the police must cooperate with federal agencies, regardless of local laws.

Additionally, in this situation, Trump activated nearly 800 National Guard soldiers to support law enforcement. According to the administration, the goal is not only to reduce crime but also to relocate homeless individuals from the city, which sparked protests among residents.

This situation is part of a larger strategy by Trump, which aims to strengthen federal control over cities where he believes there is a pressing need for a tougher approach to crime and immigration.

Tags: USA/Politics