Donald Trump has been repeating inaccurate claims about Washington DC crime rate, stating that the city was the most dangerous in the country until the federal takeover of the DC police and deployment of the National Guard.
However, these claims have been disputed, and the president’s assertions about crime rates in the nation’s capital have raised eyebrows.
The president also claimed that an eleven-day period without murders in DC was “the first time that’s taken place in years”. This statement has been disputed, as DC experienced a streak without any homicides that lasted more than two weeks in March this year.
According to recent crime data, DC has seen 101 incidents of homicide from January 1 to August 23, 2025. While crime rates can fluctuate, it’s essential to rely on accurate and up-to-date statistics when making claims about public safety.
In a separate development, Trump said that Congress has apparently agreed to provide “whatever money is needed to fix up the capital”, referring to his request for billions of dollars to continue his ‘beautification’ project.
On Friday, Trump claimed to have spoken to top congressional Republicans about the funding request. The president’s emphasis on beautification projects has sparked debate about budget priorities and the allocation of funds.
Supporters of Trump’s approach argue that the federal takeover is necessary to address the rising crime rates in Washington D.C. They believe that the city’s liberal policies have contributed to its crime problem and that a stronger federal presence is needed to restore law and order.
Trump’s executive order aims to make the city “safe, beautiful, and prosperous” by increasing law enforcement presence, targeting fare evasion, and removing homeless encampments.
Proponents of the approach argue that these measures will help to reduce crime and improve the overall quality of life in the city.
Critics of Trump’s approach argue that the federal takeover is an overreach of executive power and an attempt to undermine the city’s autonomy.
They believe that the city’s leaders are better equipped to address the crime problem and that Trump’s approach is driven by politics rather than a genuine concern for public safety.
Many have expressed concerns that the task force, which will be comprised of federal officials with no local representation, will not be able to effectively address the city’s specific needs and challenges.
Additionally, critics argue that the emphasis on beautification projects is misguided and that the funds could be better spent on addressing the root causes of crime and poverty in the city.