Eighteen Months Kindle Edition by Leslie Jones McCloud (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

D.C. Under Federal Control: Crime Emergency or Power Grab?


In this episode of Over 35 and Up, we unpack what’s happening, why it matters, and what this unprecedented clash between local and federal authority could mean for the future of Washington, D.C. Listen to the podcast🔗


Washington, D.C. is at the center of a political and social firestorm after President Trump declared a “crime emergency” and invoked Section 740 of the D.C. Home Rule Act. The move federalizes the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and brings in the National Guard—even though city leaders point out that crime has been trending at its lowest levels in decades.


Attorney General Pam Bondi followed the declaration with another controversial step: appointing DEA Administrator Terry Cole as “Emergency Police Commissioner.” This decision effectively pushed aside MPD Chief Pamela Smith, rescinded the District’s sanctuary city protections, and ordered cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.


On the ground, the impact has been swift and visible. More than 150 arrests have been made. Homeless encampments are being cleared. Federal checkpoints have appeared across the city. For immigrant and civil liberties groups, these actions raise major concerns about constitutional rights, fairness, and the erosion of local authority.


Meanwhile, protesters are adapting. Many are using coded language—like calling rallies “music festivals”—to avoid surveillance and censorship as demonstrations continue to escalate.


Commentary is sharply divided. Supporters see the moves as a long-overdue crackdown on lawlessness. Critics call it a dangerous overreach of federal power with echoes of authoritarian control. The fight also revives larger debates about D.C.’s autonomy, statehood, and the protection of vulnerable communities caught in the middle.


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