The capital of America, Washington, DC, is always in the eyes of the country and the world. This city is not only the center of political power, but millions of people come and go here every day. This place is considered very sensitive due to the White House, Capitol Hill, monuments, and government offices. But for the last several years, questions have been raised continuously about the crime rate here. Cases like theft, robbery, carjacking, and violence had tarnished the image of the capital.
Trump’s Big Step on Security
Against this background, former US President Donald Trump recently took a big step. He announced on August 11 that the security of Washington, DC, will no longer be left to the local police alone, but the Federal Forces will also handle the security of the city. He described it as a “campaign to protect the city from crime and bloodshed”.
Trump’s Claim: Huge Drop in Crime Rate
Trump says that immediately after his move, there has been an unprecedented drop in crime. While meeting the security personnel deployed in the capital, he said –
“The results have been such that it is hard to believe, but it is true. Today, this city looks completely different, as if a completely new city has been built.”
According to Trump –
- There was an 83% reduction in cases of carjacking.
- There was a 46% reduction in robbery cases.
- There was a 21% decline in car theft.
- Overall, there was a 22% reduction in violent crimes.
He gave these figures on the basis of data shared with the DC Metropolitan Police Union.
Wasn’t Crime Already Decreasing?
According to the official data of the Metropolitan Police Department, by the beginning of August 2025, violent crimes had already decreased by 26% compared to 2024. That is, the decline in crime was visible even before Trump’s announcement.
However, it is also true that Washington DC is still counted among the most dangerous cities in America. In 2024, the homicide rate here was 27.3 per 1 lakh people, which was fourth in the country. The cities with higher murder rates than this were St. Louis, New Orleans, and Detroit.
That is, Trump’s move may definitely increase the pace of crime reduction, but to say that “everything has changed” is perhaps a bit exaggerated.
800 National Guard Deployed
On August 11, Trump declared a Public Safety Emergency, and under this, 800 National Guard soldiers were sent to the capital.
These soldiers were deployed in the most crowded and tourist-filled areas of the city –
- National Mall (where there are famous monuments and museums)
- Union Station (main railway station)
- Major metro stations and hubs
Apart from this, the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and park police were also deployed to help the local police. Several Republican-ruled states – such as Ohio, Mississippi, West Virginia, and Louisiana – also sent their troops.
Impact on Locals and Tourists
When such a large number of troops and federal forces are deployed in a city, it affects people’s everyday lives.
- On the one hand, many residents say that they feel more secure. There is now less fear in crowded areas. Especially women and the elderly say that going out late in the evening feels safer than before.
- But on the other hand, some civil rights activists say that this move is “federal overreach”, that is, excessive interference of the federal government in local affairs. They believe that this weakens the credibility of the local police and also creates an atmosphere of fear among the people.
Trump’s Political Agenda
Trump did not stop only at crime. Amidst the discussion of security, he promised to improve the streets, sidewalks and public places of the capital. He said –
“We will get some funding from Congress. The roads will be rebuilt, the center dividers and medians will be improved and all the graffiti is being removed very fast.”
This statement shows that Trump wants to make the capital not only crime-free but also clean and modern in appearance.
New Ballroom in the White House
Trump’s most interesting and perhaps the most controversial announcement was to build a new 90,000 square feet ballroom in the White House.
He said –
“For the last 150 years, people were demanding to build a ballroom here, but they never had a president with real estate. I have built many ballrooms and this will be the most luxurious ballroom in the world.”
Now the question arises whether the White House really needs such a large and expensive ballroom? Critics say that this money should be spent on security, education and health services. But Trump supporters believe that this ballroom will show the strength and glory of America and will make the capital more attractive for big international events.
Will Federal Intervention Last for a Long Time?
The biggest question is – will this security system be permanent?
History shows that whenever federal forces were deployed for a long time in an American city, tension increased between the local administration and the public. Local leaders believe that the real way to solve the problem of crime is –
- Provide better education and employment to the youth
- Tackle drugs and gang culture
- Provide resources and technology to the local police
If these basic causes are not addressed, the crime rate may decrease temporarily, but in the long run the problem returns again.
Trump’s Message and Future Politics
Trump said –
“This is the capital. We have to make it the best city in the world.”
His message is not limited to security, but is also a part of his political strategy. Making Washington DC crime-free and safe will be a demonstration of his leadership ability, which can benefit him in the upcoming elections.
But at the same time critics are also saying that this step is a part of electoral politics. The crime rate was already decreasing, and Trump linked it to his “big step”.
Conclusion: What is the Real Picture?
The reduction in crime rate in Washington DC is certainly a matter of relief. But whether this reduction has come only due to federal intervention or is part of the already ongoing decline – it is not clear yet.
Trump’s supporters say that his leadership is decisive and effective, while opponents consider it a mere political stunt.
As far as the new ballroom of the White House is concerned, this move will probably create more controversy in the coming months.
The truth is that there is no “magic solution” to the problem of crime. It cannot be eliminated simply by the presence of police and military, but can only be changed in the long run by improvements in society, education and opportunities.