Trump seeks longer DC police takeover, open to emergency powers

President Donald Trump signaled he will seek extensions beyond the 30-day limit for the federal takeover of Washington, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department, a move he described as part of a broader push to crack down on crime in the capital. He said he would ask Congress, dominated by Republicans, to approve long-term extensions but acknowledged that the extension beyond 30 days requires a joint resolution from both chambers. He also indicated he could declare a national emergency to bypass Congress if necessary, though he stressed he preferred to avoid such a step.

Under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, the president can require the D.C. mayor to provide police services for up to 30 days in emergencies. An extension beyond that period normally requires congressional action. The White House has argued the measures are needed to address what Mr. Trump has portrayed as a surge in crime, while city officials have contested the characterization, noting that violent crime in the city has trended downward from a spike in 2023 and that last year’s figures reached a multi-decade low according to federal data.

Trump’s comments came as federal and local authorities have pooled...