Thousands of demonstrators flooded Washington on Saturday, demanding an end to what they call the Trump administration’s unlawful takeover of the nation’s capital. The march, branded “We Are All DC: A National March,” was organized by the Free DC Project and directly challenged the National Guard’s extended presence in city neighborhoods. Local leaders, including Attorney General Brian Schwalb, argue the deployment violates democratic rights and undermines public safety.
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Protest Demands Federal Exit
The rally, led by the Free DC Project, drew massive crowds under the slogan “Trump Must Go Now.” Organizers called for the withdrawal of federal forces and an end to the administration’s occupation of the capital. Chants echoed through the city as demonstrators waved banners and signs declaring solidarity with residents of Washington, D.C.
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Lawsuit Targets Deployment
The protest came just two days after D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb filed a lawsuit challenging the National Guard’s presence. He argued that the Trump administration had illegally deployed troops to patrol residential neighborhoods, saying the move was a breach of both local authority and constitutional protections. The legal battle now threatens to escalate tensions between the city and federal government.
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National Guard Extended
On the same day the lawsuit was filed, the D.C. National Guard announced its deployment would continue until the end of November. The extension, criticized as unnecessary and heavy-handed, fueled anger among residents who feel the presence of troops disrupts community life and creates fear rather than safety.
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Residents Reject Occupation
Many at the march voiced frustration over the extended deployment. Natalie Howe, a D.C. resident attending with her child, said, “Washington, D.C. is safe enough for me to have my kid in, and I really like it here. And, as you know, from looking at the crime stats, the crime is not the problem in D.C.” Her remarks reflected the growing sentiment among residents that the crackdown is politically driven rather than based on real security needs.
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Crime Rates Declining
City data shows crime in Washington was already at a 30-year low before the federal crackdown began in August. Despite the deployment of troops and stricter enforcement, violent crime has continued to decline. Local leaders argue this undercuts the administration’s justification for its intervention and highlights the disconnection between political rhetoric and the city’s reality.
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Federal Takeover Nears End
The Trump administration’s control over the D.C. police force is currently set to expire on Wednesday unless Congress votes for an extension. For protesters, this moment marks a critical test of federal power and local autonomy. Activists vow to keep pressure on lawmakers, warning that continued occupation threatens the city’s democratic freedoms.