President Donald Trump has vowed to relocate homeless people “far” from Washington, D.C., as part of his crackdown on crime in the city. His plan includes offering shelter services, but individuals who refuse to cooperate could face fines or jail time. However, the White House has not clarified the legal authority Trump would use to enforce such a policy, as the president only controls federal land and buildings in D.C.
Trump’s Plan and Statement
Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that homeless individuals would be offered housing away from the capital, with the option to stay in shelters or face legal consequences if they refuse. The president’s comments came amid his broader efforts to take federal control of Washington, D.C., despite city officials asserting that the city is not experiencing a significant crime spike.
Mayor Bowser’s Response
Washington’s Democratic mayor, Muriel Bowser, rejected the idea of a crime wave in the city, pointing to a 30-year low in violent crime. Bowser emphasized that crime rates in D.C. have dropped significantly, including a 26% decrease in violent crime in the first seven months of 2025. She also dismissed Trump’s comparisons of D.C. to a “war-torn country” as exaggerated and misleading.
Trump’s Legal and Military Actions
The White House has declined to clarify the legal framework for relocating homeless individuals, as federal jurisdiction over the city is limited. Trump’s rhetoric has fueled concerns about federal intervention in local governance, especially given his history of threatening to use military resources in U.S. cities to enforce his policies. Trump’s previous actions, including deploying National Guard forces in Los Angeles, have been met with resistance from local leaders.
Homelessness and Crime in D.C.
Despite Trump’s claims, the city’s police department reports a decrease in both violent and overall crime. Furthermore, D.C. has seen a reduction in homelessness, with about 3,782 individuals experiencing homelessness on any given night, and the majority residing in shelters rather than on the streets.
Potential Challenges and Congressional Actions
To implement Trump’s plan to federalize Washington, D.C., Congress would likely need to pass a law revoking the city’s Home Rule Act, which grants local residents the right to elect their own leaders. This could lead to significant political and legal challenges if pursued further.