US President Donald Trump announced plans to call a national emergency and federalise Washington D.C., after Mayor Muriel Bowser stated that the city’s police would not cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

On Monday, the dispute centers around the sharing of information regarding individuals living in or entering the US illegally. Critics view Trump’s threat as federal overreach, particularly as more than 2,000 troops patrol the city.

This announcement follows recent protests against Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops in August to “re-establish law, order, and public safety” after he described crime as a significant issue in the capital. Trump claimed on Truth Social, “In just few weeks, the ‘place’ is absolutely booming for the first time in decades, virtually NO CRIME”.

Bowser’s office has not yet commented on Trump’s remarks. Earlier, Trump placed the Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control and dispatched federal law enforcement, including members of ICE, to patrol the streets, though the duration of their mission remains uncertain.

Trump attributed Bowser’s stance to pressure from “Radical Left Democrats”, warning that if police ceased cooperation with ICE, “crime would come roaring back”. He reassured Washington DC residents and businesses stating, “DON’T WORRY, I AM WITH YOU, AND WON’T ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN. I’ll call a National Emergency and Federalise, if necessary!!!”

Despite previously commending the surge of federal law enforcement for its role in reducing crime, Bowser has signed an order for the city to coordinate with federal authorities.

The National Guard operates as a militia under the governors of the 50 states unless called into federal service, with the DC National Guard reporting directly to the president.