The kind of strict step taken by former US President Donald Trump regarding law and order in Washington, DC, recently has drawn the attention of the whole country. Trump clearly said that he will not only continue the deployment of the National Guard and law enforcement agencies in DC but will also expand it further if needed. The purpose of his move is being said to be to make the city safe and prevent crime. Addressing dozens of police officers and guard personnel, Trump claimed that his campaign will not be limited to DC only, but it will be taken to other cities if needed. This statement has created both enthusiasm among his supporters and anger among his opponents.
Special situation in Washington, DC
This initiative of Trump is being discussed so much because Washington, DC, is different from other cities of America. It is not a part of any state and the federal government has special control over the police system here. For this reason, the president can directly give his orders to the police department, which is not possible in other cities. That’s why critics are saying that Trump took advantage of this special situation to “federalize” DC’s police. About 1,900 National Guard troops have been deployed in DC, who have come from states like West Virginia, South Carolina, Ohio, Louisiana and Tennessee.
Opposition and resentment of DC residents
Although Trump is calling it a “security operation,” there is deep resentment among local residents about this move. A recent survey found that about 79% of DC residents are opposing the federal government taking control of the police and deploying the National Guard. They believe that this move is against the city’s autonomy and democratic rights. Many people say that the crime rate is already lower this year than in 2024, yet Trump is exaggerating this issue to strengthen his political image.
Action and controversy on homeless people
Another aspect of this campaign of the Trump administration is the ongoing action against homeless people. The National Guard and police have removed tents and temporary huts from many areas. This is also being strongly criticized, as people are questioning where these homeless people will be sent after being removed. Vice President J.D. Vance avoided giving a direct answer to this question and said that the real “compassion” is that people suffering from mental illnesses should not be allowed to live on the streets. He argued that such people need proper care and rehabilitation, not to beon the open streets. However, critics say that it is unfair for the administration to remove them from the streets without making alternative arrangements.
Atmosphere of protests
There are continuous protests against this campaign in DC. When Vice President Vance met the Guard soldiers deployed at Union Station, he had to face the slogans of the protesters. People were loudly shouting slogans like “This is our city” and “Get the soldiers out of the streets.” It is clear from this that the local public is not happy with this policy of the administration and is considering it a “forceful occupation.”
Political and social impact
This step of Trump is not only related to law and order, but it also has deep political meaning. On one hand, his supporters are calling it a “bold decision” and considering it a campaign against crime and anarchy, while on the other hand, opponents say that this step is against democracy and points towards excessive centralization. Experts believe that if Trump tries to implement this policy in other cities as well, then legal and political disputes may increase there, because it is not possible to directly federalize other cities like DC.
Results and future prospects
Trump has made it clear that his campaign will not be limited to DC only. Although it will not be easy to implement it in other cities due to legal and constitutional obstacles, it is certain that this step has started a new debate in American politics and society. The question is, will such a large military and police deployment in the name of law and order actually make the city safe or is it a sign of danger to democratic rights and freedom?