Donald Trump is calling for a federal takeover of Washington, D.C., saying the city’s leadership has failed to address crime and homelessness. Speaking aboard Air Force One on Wednesday, Trump told reporters, “I think we should take over Washington, D.C., make it safe.”
Trump’s comments come as some congressional Republicans push for rolling back D.C.’s Home Rule, which has allowed the city to govern itself since the 1970s. Under this proposal, Congress would fully control Washington, D.C., just as it did before Home Rule was established.
“I think that we should govern the District of Columbia,” Trump said, while also criticizing D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowserfor the city’s handling of crime and public safety.
“They’re not doing the job,” Trump said. “Too much crime, too many tents on the lawns—these magnificent lawns.”
Trump also argued that the nation’s capital must present a better image when hosting foreign leaders. “You can’t have tents on all your beautiful—your once magnificent plaza and lawns,” he added, referring to the growing number of homeless encampments in the city.
What Is Home Rule, and Why Does It Matter?
Home Rule is the system that allows Washington, D.C. to govern itself without direct day-to-day control by Congress. However, unlike states, D.C. does not have full autonomy:
- Congress reviews all D.C. laws and has the power to overturn them.
- Congress controls D.C.’s budget, meaning the city can’t spend money without federal approval.
- Unlike states, D.C. does not have voting representation in Congress—its only delegate can propose legislation but cannot vote on final bills.
Since Home Rule was enacted in 1973, D.C. has operated under a mayor-council system, where local officials manage the city. However, Republicans in Congress have long argued that D.C. should not have self-governance since it is a federal district, not a state.
Would Congress Really Take Over D.C.?
While Trump’s comments have energized conservative lawmakers, any plan to fully revoke Home Rule would likely face strong resistance from Democrats and local D.C. leaders.
Congress already has the power to override D.C. laws, and has done so in the past, including blocking local efforts on criminal justice reform and marijuana legalization.
Mayor Muriel Bowser and other D.C. officials are expected to fight any move to strip the city of its limited autonomy. D.C. residents have long advocated for statehood, arguing that they pay federal taxes but have no voting representation in Congress.
