The capital of America, Washington DC, has always been the center of not only politics but also security and social issues. Diplomats, officials, journalists and tourists from all over the world come here. Therefore, this city is in the eyes of not only America but the whole world. But in the last few years, the shadow of crime has deepened on the identity of the capital. Incidents of car theft, robbery, armed fights and murder had created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the citizens of DC. This is why Donald Trump, who is always known for his tough and different image, took steps to change this situation. He sent the federal forces directly to the streets of the capital and gave the message that crime and disorder will not be tolerated.
This step of Trump was not only an administrative action but also a political strategy. He presented himself as the protector of the public and tried to prove that he is still the biggest advocate of America’s security and stability. After this step, he claimed a big victory within ten days and said that Washington has now become safer than ever.
Trump’s winning style and direct communication with the public
On August 21, Donald Trump arrived in the capital and attended an event held at the United States Park Police facility located in Anacostia Park. This event was not only to boost the morale of officers and soldiers, but it was also a kind of political platform where Trump conveyed his achievements directly to the public. He was seen smiling, shaking hands with people in his own style and serving burgers and pizza like a common citizen. This is his old style—he tries to show himself as a leader connected to the people.
In his speech, Trump said, “Crime figures have come down so fast that it is hard to believe. But it is true. Now DC feels like a completely different city. I personally feel very safe here.” This statement was not just a mention of figures but also a symbolic message that now the capital is moving from chaos to order.
Deployment of federal forces and cooperation of states
The Trump administration deployed 800 National Guard soldiers directly on the streets to protect the capital. The presence of these soldiers not only warned criminals but also assured ordinary citizens that their safety is the first priority of the government. The deployment of soldiers was done especially at places where a large number of tourists and citizens visit, such as the National Mall, Union Station and major metro stops. Tight security arrangements at these places were necessary to prevent crime as well as improve the image of the city.
Interestingly, this mission received support not only from the capital’s own police but also from other Republican states. States like Ohio, Mississippi, West Virginia and Louisiana supported the Trump administration’s initiative by sending their guardsmen. This was not only a matter of security but also a sign of political solidarity. Republican-ruled states tried to show that they stand with their leader and strict action against crime is their common agenda.
Decline in crime rate and its implications
In his speech, Trump described the huge decline in crime rate as the biggest achievement. According to the Washington, DC, Police Union, crime figures came down shockingly in just seven days.
- Carjackings, i.e., forceful snatching of vehicles, decreased by 83%.
- Robbery incidents declined by 46%.
- Car theft decreased by 21%.
- And most importantly, a 22% decline was observed in total violent crimes.
These figures justify Trump’s strategy. However, critics also say that crime was already on the decline. According to the data of the Metropolitan Police Department, by August 8, 2025, i.e., before Trump’s action, violent crimes had already decreased by 26% compared to the previous year.
This fact raises the question of whether the decline in crime happened because of Trump or was already happening. But in politics, the interpretation of the figures often matters, and Trump attracted the attention of the public by presenting it as his achievement.
Broader scenario of crime
If seen from a broader perspective, the situation in Washington, DC, is still not completely satisfactory. In 2024, the murder rate here was among the fourth highest in America. 27.3 murders were recorded per 100,000 residents, which is a very worrying number. This figure shows that the problem of crime is not going to end in just a few days.
Despite this, Trump’s action definitely gave the message that if strict steps are taken, then criminals can be affected immediately. The joint presence of the National Guard and other agencies created fear among the criminals and strengthened law and order in the city.
Trump’s ambition to change the capital
Trump’s dream is not only to control crime. He made it clear in his speech that his plan is to completely change the capital. He said, “This is the capital of America; it has to be made the best capital in the world.“
For this, he is preparing to ask for an additional budget from Congress. According to him, roads and medians will be repaired, graffiti will be removed from the walls and the city will be cleaned. He believes that the capital should not only be safe but also attractive and modern.
The White House’s new dream – Ballroom
Trump’s style has always been associated with some unusual and grand ideas. This time too, he surprised everyone by announcing a plan to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom in the White House. He said that for the last 150 years people have been thinking about this, but no one has been able to implement it. He jokingly said, “Now a president with real estate has come to the White House. I have built many great ballrooms and this White House ballroom will be the most magnificent of them all.“
This idea may seem strange to some people, but it matches perfectly with Trump’s image. He always talks about big and unique projects, be they political or personal. This plan not only shows his ambition but also tells that he wants to make everything grand and different in his own style.
Conclusion
Donald Trump claims that he made Washington DC safe and organized by removing crime and chaos in just ten days. Although statistics show that crime was already on the decline, the deployment of federal forces definitely changed the atmosphere of the city. People got a new confidence of security and a kind of fear was instilled among the criminals.
Also, Trump’s plans are not limited to security only. He dreams of making the capital the best city in the world. Whether it is repairing roads, removing graffiti or building a huge ballroom in the White House, each of his plans reflects his different thinking and grandeur.
The story of Washington, DC, is not limited to crime and security at the moment, but it also gives a glimpse of America’s politics, power and ambition. Trump’s actions have made it a topic of discussion even more and it will be interesting to see in the coming times whether these plans really have a long-term impact or remain just a political statement.