Administration Targets Key Urban Areas
President Donald Trump announced plans to extend his federal crime initiative to Chicago and New York, describing Chicago as disorderly and promising similar action in New York. The effort continues a focus on Democratic-led cities with Black mayors, generating criticism from local officials who view the move as politically motivated.
Washington Guard Troops to Be Armed
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed that National Guard troops in Washington DC will now carry firearms, overturning previous assurances that they would remain unarmed. Roughly 2,000 troops are currently stationed in the capital, including reinforcements from Republican-governed states. Officials confirmed that the soldiers will use standard-issued weapons appropriate for their mission.
Trump has assumed direct federal control of the DC police and placed Guard units under national authority, citing rising crime and homelessness. Local officials condemned the intervention, arguing it undermines city governance.
Unusual Federal Oversight of Guard Forces
Typically, state governors command National Guard units, and federal control is exercised only in rare circumstances. Earlier this year, Trump bypassed California’s governor to federalize Guard troops in Los Angeles during immigration-related protests, an uncommon exercise of presidential authority.
Prosecutors Ordered to Pursue Maximum Penalties
The crackdown also imposes new legal directives. Jeanine Pirro, the District’s chief federal prosecutor and former television host, instructed attorneys to pursue the harshest charges allowed in criminal cases, limiting prosecutorial discretion. The policy is expected to lead to longer prison terms.
Pirro simultaneously announced that prosecutors will not file felony charges for possession of rifles or shotguns, despite local restrictions. She cited Supreme Court precedent and Justice Department guidance to justify the change.
Local Officials Push Back
Federal authorities report over 630 arrests in Washington since the operation began. Trump has indicated that Baltimore, Oakland, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York may be next for similar federal interventions.
City and state leaders rejected the strategy. Maryland Governor Wes Moore emphasized that Baltimore is reducing crime through community programs and refused to deploy the Guard for “political display.” Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott accused Trump of targeting Black-led cities and imposing federal control on areas he has no direct knowledge of.
