Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has acknowledged that President Donald Trump’s surge of federal law enforcement officers has helped reduce crime in the nation’s capital. However, she also criticized the involvement of ICE agents and National Guard troops, arguing their presence has created fear among residents.

In a recent briefing, Bowser described the results as a “mixed picture” — praising the partnership with federal agencies like the DEA, ATF, and FBI, but rejecting tactics that she said erode community trust.

Federal Surge Brings Sharp Decline in Carjackings and Crime

On August 7, 2023, Trump announced a federal task force and surge of officers to help tackle rising crime in D.C. Since then, the city has seen:

• 87% drop in carjackings compared to the same 20-day period the previous year
• 15% overall decline in crime
• Increased seizures of illegal firearms
• More arrests leading to “greater accountability,” according to Bowser

Bowser highlighted that carjackings had been one of the city’s “most troubling” crimes in 2023, but the recent decline has reassured residents.

Bowser’s Praise — and Criticism

“We greatly appreciate the surge of officers that enhance what MPD has been able to do in this city,” Bowser said, crediting the collaboration between local police and federal law enforcement.

However, she sharply rebuked the deployment of:

• Masked ICE agents in D.C. neighborhoods
• National Guard troops from other states

According to Bowser, these deployments have been “not efficient” and have caused unnecessary fear, particularly among immigrant communities.

“What we know is not working is a break in trust between police and community,” Bowser said. “Having masked ICE agents in the community has not worked.”

City Council Pushes Back

Several members of the D.C. Council criticized Bowser’s remarks, warning that acknowledging Trump’s federal surge as “helpful” could be misinterpreted as support.

• Councilmember Robert White Jr.: “We should not give people the impression that this is a good thing. It is not helping the city.”
• Councilmember Brianne Nadeau: Described the situation as D.C. being “under siege,” saying residents are “afraid” and feel autonomy is being eroded.

Meeting with Trump and Federal Officials

Bowser confirmed she spoke with Trump this week but described the conversation as a “courtesy” rather than a policy negotiation. She also said she has been in touch with Attorney General Pam Bondi and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles regarding public safety in the city.

While the federal surge is scheduled to last 30 days, Bowser signaled that D.C. prefers long-term solutions led by local control. She emphasized the need to hire 500 more Metropolitan Police officers in the coming years.

Immigration Enforcement Sparks Fear

The surge has included ICE operations that reportedly led to arrests of undocumented immigrants with prior criminal records. However, Bowser stressed that her focus is on violent crime reduction, not immigration enforcement.

“I am devastated by people living in fear,” Bowser said, calling for comprehensive immigration reform and a pathway to citizenship for law-abiding immigrants.

The White House, in contrast, defended ICE’s role. A spokesperson said Trump’s efforts have “removed over a thousand criminals from D.C.’s streets”, including members of gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua.

Looking Ahead

While the surge has brought measurable improvements in crime rates, Bowser and local leaders remain wary of federal overreach. The mayor reiterated her desire for local control of D.C.’s public safety system, with federal agencies serving as partners rather than overseers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Has crime decreased in D.C. since Trump’s federal surge?

Yes. According to Mayor Bowser, there has been an 87% drop in carjackings and a 15% overall reduction in crime since the surge began.

Why is Muriel Bowser critical of ICE and National Guard presence?

Bowser argues that masked ICE agents and National Guard troops have created fear in neighborhoods, eroding community trust without effectively addressing crime.

How long will the federal surge last?

The Trump administration announced the surge as a 30-day initiative, though Bowser has indicated it may not be necessary afterward.

What are D.C. Council members saying?

Several Council members, including Robert White Jr. and Brianne Nadeau, criticized the mayor’s remarks, warning that D.C. residents feel “under siege.”

What long-term solutions does Bowser support?

Bowser wants to hire at least 500 more local police officers and maintain cooperation with federal agencies like the DEA, ATF, and FBI — but under D.C. leadership.