President Donald Trump said Wednesday he may declare a national emergency to maintain federal control over Washington, D.C.’s police force if Congress does not approve an extension to the current 30-day authorization.
The comments come amid an ongoing federal crackdown on crime and homelessness in the nation’s capital.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) came under federal control Monday as part of a 30-day plan authorized by the Trump administration. Under current law, any extension beyond that period requires congressional approval.
When asked whether 30 days would be enough or if an extension was being negotiated, Trump said he expected to approach Congress soon but would consider unilateral action if necessary.
“If it’s a national emergency, we can do it without Congress,” he told reporters during a press conference at the Kennedy Center.
“We think the Democrats will not do anything to stop crime, but we think the Republicans will do it almost unanimously. So we’re going to need a crime bill… We’re going to use [D.C.] as a very positive example.”
Trump also emphasized his preference for congressional cooperation but made clear that he is prepared to invoke emergency powers. “I don’t want to call a national emergency, but if I have to I will,” he said.
Crime and Homelessness Crackdown Underway
The decision to federalize the MPD followed Trump’s announcement last week of a wider initiative targeting crime and homelessness in the District.
The plan brought in the National Guard and federal law enforcement in addition to placing the city’s police force under federal command.
According to the White House, more than 100 arrests have been made since August 7, including 43 on Tuesday alone. These arrests are part of the “Making DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force,” created through a March executive order.
“President Trump’s bold leadership is quickly making our nation’s capital safer,”
White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said. “In less than one week, over 100 violent criminals have already been arrested and taken off of the streets.”
Homeless Encampments Targeted for Removal
Alongside the crime initiative, the administration is moving to dismantle homeless encampments in federal parks.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters Tuesday that residents of these encampments would be given two options: accept shelter and treatment or face jail time.
Leavitt said the U.S. Park Police have removed 70 encampments so far, with MPD assisting in the effort.
“There are only two homeless encampments remaining in D.C. federal parks under the National Park Service’s jurisdiction, and the removal of those two remaining camps is scheduled for this week,” she said.
