How bad is crime and disorder in Washington, D.C.? Just asking questions.
Local crime became a national issue following the assault of Edward Coristine—a former staffer at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) who is also known as "Big Balls"—during an alleged carjacking. Trump reacted on Truth Social, saying, "Crime in Washington, D.C., is totally out of control" and promised to "exert my powers, and FEDERALIZE this City" following the assault. The capital is now occupied by members of the National Guard, and Trump has said that although they are starting with D.C., "this will go further" and named other cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Baltimore.
Some Democrats, like Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D–Md.), have said Trump is exaggerating.