In remarks that have drawn significant attention, the president promised “no more Mr. Nice Guy” when it comes to enforcement in the capital. He described the move as part of an effort to restore what he called the city’s “former beauty” and to address what he characterized as lawlessness.
Critics quickly pointed out that the city’s official crime data does not match the administration’s depiction, with violent crime reportedly at a decades-long low.
City Leaders Respond
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser described the takeover as “unsettling and unprecedented,” noting that while the city has experienced disagreements with past administrations, this level of federal control over local police is highly unusual.
Civil rights advocates and community leaders expressed concern about the potential for escalated confrontations between law enforcement and residents. Online discussions reflected a similar unease, with many commentators calling the approach a troubling precedent.
