Federal Effort Shifts to Major Cities
President Donald Trump announced plans to extend his federal crime initiative to Chicago and New York, describing Chicago as in disarray and stating that New York would follow. The effort continues a focus on Democratic-led cities with Black mayors, prompting criticism from local officials who view the actions as politically motivated.
National Guard Troops to Carry Weapons in Capital
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered that National Guard members in Washington DC will now be armed, reversing previous assurances that they would remain unarmed. About 2,000 troops are stationed in the city, including reinforcements from Republican-led states. Officials confirmed that the soldiers will carry standard-issued firearms suitable for their mission.
Trump has also assumed direct federal oversight of the DC police department and placed the Guard under national command, citing public safety concerns over crime and homelessness. Local leaders have criticized the move as an overreach of federal authority.
Rare Use of Federal Authority Over Guard Units
Typically, state governors command National Guard units, with federal authority invoked only in exceptional situations. Earlier this year, Trump bypassed California’s governor to federalize Guard troops in Los Angeles during immigration-related protests, a highly unusual assertion of presidential power.
Prosecutors Directed to File Maximum Charges
The federal crackdown also extends to the courts. Jeanine Pirro, the District’s chief federal prosecutor and former television personality, instructed her staff to pursue the harshest charges allowed in most criminal cases, limiting prosecutorial discretion and potentially increasing prison terms.
At the same time, Pirro directed prosecutors not to pursue felony charges for possession of rifles or shotguns, despite a District prohibition. She cited Supreme Court guidance and Justice Department policy to support the decision.
Local Officials Push Back
Federal authorities reported over 630 arrests in Washington connected to the initiative. Trump has also indicated that Baltimore, Oakland, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York could be targeted for similar federal measures.
State and city leaders voiced strong opposition. Maryland Governor Wes Moore said 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 oversight on neighborhoods he has never personally visited.
