Washington, DC — Anger and unease spilled into the streets Wednesday as residents protested President Donald Trump’s takeover of the city’s police department and the sharp increase in federal officers and National Guard troops patrolling the nation’s capital.
The move — the first of its kind in decades — gives the White House direct control over the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) for at least a month, a decision Trump says is needed to tackle “emergency levels” of crime. Local leaders, however, point to city data showing violent crime is at a 30-year low, following a spike two years ago.
Protesters Push Back
Crowds gathered along 14th Street Northwest, chanting “Go home, fascists” and urging drivers to avoid police checkpoints. Demonstrators accused the administration of overreach and questioned the necessity of such heavy-handed tactics.
“It’s more fearful now,” said Washington native Sheina Taylor. “Even if you’re a law-abiding citizen, you don’t know what’s going to happen — especially because I’m African American.”
Troops in the Capital
On Wednesday, federal officers and National Guard members fanned out across the city:
- Homeland Security Investigations agents patrolled the U Street corridor.
- DEA officers monitored the National Mall and joined MPD in Navy Yard.
- FBI agents were posted along Massachusetts Avenue.
According to a National Guard spokesperson, the mission will expand Thursday. By Tuesday night, 1,450 officers — federal and local combined — were deployed, resulting in 43 arrests, up from about two dozen the night before.
Councilmember Christina Henderson dismissed the numbers, calling them “a bunch of traffic stops” and accusing the administration of inflating results.
White House Defends the Takeover
Trump invoked his legal authority to control DC’s police for up to 30 days without congressional approval, hinting he may seek an extension.
“DC has been under siege from thugs and killers, but now it’s back under federal control where it belongs,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers framed the move as part of Trump’s promise to “restore American greatness” to the capital. The plan also includes dismantling homeless encampments, with US Park Police removing dozens of tents since March. Those refusing shelter or addiction treatment could face fines or jail time.
City Leaders Want Clarity
Police Chief Pamela Smith said MPD is down nearly 800 officers, making federal reinforcements helpful. Still, Mayor Muriel Bowser — who initially labeled the move “unsettling and unprecedented” — says she’s received no specific benchmarks from the Justice Department.
While the administration frames the takeover as a safety measure, many DC residents say the militarized presence feels more like an occupation — one they didn’t ask for.
