Trump Suggests Expanded Federal Role in Washington if Progressive Candidate Wins Mayoral Race
President Donald Trump on Thursday suggested that the federal government could assume a greater role in governing Washington, D.C., if a progressive candidate wins next week’s Democratic mayoral primary, intensifying debate over the balance between local autonomy and federal authority in the nation’s capital.
Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office event, Trump indicated he would oppose the election of a democratic socialist mayor and suggested that federal intervention could be considered if he believed city leadership was moving in the wrong direction.
“I wouldn’t like it, and maybe we take back Washington and run it on a federal basis,” Trump said. “We’re not going to lose our businesses.”
Although Trump did not specifically name D.C. Council member Janeese Lewis George, his remarks were widely interpreted as referring to her candidacy. George has emerged as the leading contender to succeed outgoing Mayor Muriel Bowser, with recent polling showing her holding a significant lead over former D.C. Council member Kenyan McDuffie ahead of the June 16 Democratic primary.
Washington operates under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which allows residents to elect a mayor and city council while preserving Congress’s ultimate authority over the district. Trump has frequently argued that the federal government should exercise greater oversight of the city, citing concerns related to crime, homelessness, public safety, and economic development.
The president praised recent improvements in the capital, stating that Washington has become “a safe, beautiful place” with a thriving business community.
Trump’s comments come months after his administration temporarily assumed control of the Metropolitan Police Department under emergency powers and deployed National Guard personnel throughout the city, a move that drew strong criticism from local officials and congressional Democrats.
George swiftly condemned Trump’s latest remarks, describing them as a threat to democratic self-governance. A member of the Democratic Socialists of America, she has centered her campaign on affordable housing, expanded social services, and public safety reforms emphasizing prevention and community investment.
