Trump Deploys National Guard, Takes Control of Washington DC's Police Department

President Donald Trump announced a historic escalation of law enforcement in Washington DC, deploying the National Guard and placing the city's police department under federal control, citing a high crime rate and recent attacks. The move follows a previous order for a seven-day surge in federal law enforcement. Trump stated that he would "clean it up real quick" and that the city is experiencing "complete and total lawlessness." Trump's action grants him direct control over the DC Metropolitan Police Department for 30 days, citing the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973.

Key Takeaways:

• The president has direct control over DC's National Guard, unlike every other unit, which is under the authority of state governors.
• Trump invoked the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973 to place the DC Metropolitan Police Department under federal control for 30 days.
• The move comes after a recent attack of a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer by 10 teens on August 3 and a high-profile crime rate in the city.
• President Trump's deployment of the National Guard includes soldiers from various states, with the majority serving in part-time roles, while others serve full-time.
• National Guard members receive between $200 and $600 for weekend duty, depending on their rank, in addition to allowances for accommodation and meals, education assistance, and health insurance.
• Soldiers who have completed military service in the army can apply to serve in the National Guard without requiring further training.
• National Guard members typically serve one weekend per month and two weeks per year.

Statistics:

• $200-$600: the range of pay for weekend duty for National Guard members, depending on their rank.
• 30 days: the duration for which the DC Metropolitan Police Department will be under federal control.
• 1973: the year the District of Columbia Home Rule Act was enacted.
• 10 teens: the number of individuals involved in the recent attack of a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer.

Sources:

• "Donald Trump orders 7-day surge in federal law enforcement in Washington, DC" by DW (no publication date).
• The District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973