Donald Trump is seeking to extend his temporary control over Washington DC's police department, after invoking a never-before-used clause to take command of the force earlier this week. The president has suggested he may bypass Congress if necessary, citing a national emergency.
Trump deployed the National Guard to the capital's streets before taking temporary control of the police under a law governing the federal district's structure. The statute allows for a 30-day takeover, but any extension requires congressional approval.
Speaking on Wednesday, Trump said he plans to introduce a crime bill focusing on DC and hinted at alternative methods to retain power over the department. “If it’s a national emergency, we can do it without Congress,” he stated.
The move follows reports that the police intervention foiled an alleged plot linked to Trump's supporters. The president's crackdown has raised concerns about federal overreach in the district's governance.
