Federal Effort Moves Into Key Cities
President Donald Trump announced plans to extend his federal crime initiative to Chicago and New York, describing Chicago as chaotic and promising similar action in New York. The campaign continues to focus on Democratic-led cities with Black mayors, sparking criticism from local leaders.
Armed National Guard Patrols in the Capital
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered that National Guard troops in Washington DC will now carry weapons, reversing earlier assurances that they would remain unarmed. About 2,000 Guard members are stationed in the city, including reinforcements from Republican-led states. Officials confirmed they will carry service-issued firearms appropriate for their assignments.
Trump has also taken direct federal control of DC’s police department and placed the Guard under national authority, citing rising crime and homelessness as justification. City officials have condemned the move as an overreach.
Federal Command Over Guard Units Uncommon
State governors typically command their National Guard forces, with federal intervention occurring only in rare situations. Earlier this year, Trump bypassed California’s governor to place Guard units in Los Angeles under federal authority during protests related to immigration enforcement, a highly unusual use of presidential power.
Prosecutors Directed to File Maximum Charges
The crackdown also includes new legal policies. Jeanine Pirro, the District’s chief federal prosecutor and former television host, instructed her staff to pursue the toughest possible charges in most cases, limiting discretion and potentially increasing prison terms.
Pirro also advised prosecutors not to pursue felony charges for possession of rifles or shotguns, despite local prohibitions. She cited Supreme Court precedent and Justice Department guidance to justify the decision.
Local Leaders Push Back
Federal officials reported over 630 arrests in Washington connected to the initiative. Trump has suggested that Baltimore, Oakland, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York could also face similar federal interventions.
State and city leaders criticized the plan. Maryland Governor Wes Moore said Baltimore is addressing crime through community programs and refused to deploy the Guard for “political spectacle.” Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott accused Trump of targeting Black-led cities and imposing federal oversight on communities he has never visited.
