Summary
President Trump has taken control of Washington, D.C.'s police force and deployed the National Guard, despite a recent drop in violent crime. This move is permitted under the Home Rule Act, which allows for limited self-governance in D.C. but maintains Congressional and presidential authority in certain areas. D.C. has experienced federal control before, historically governed by presidentially appointed officials before gaining home rule in 1973.
Key Facts
- President Trump announced control over D.C.’s police and deployed the National Guard.
- Overall violent crime in D.C. is currently lower compared to past levels.
- The Home Rule Act of 1973 allows D.C. some self-governance but retains federal authority.
- D.C. residents elect their mayor and city council under home rule.
- Before 1973, D.C. was governed by presidentially appointed commissioners for nearly 100 years.
- A federally created board managed D.C.'s finances in the 1990s.
- Congress retains legislative and budget control over D.C., unlike on U.S. states.
