Additional Coverage:
Washington D.C. Residents Overwhelmingly Oppose Federal Policing
A new Washington Post/Schar School poll reveals strong local opposition to President Trump’s federalization of the D.C. police and National Guard presence. A staggering 79% of residents oppose the measures, compared to a mere 17% who support them.
This disapproval comes despite a significant drop in perceived crime. Only 31% of residents now consider crime a serious issue, down from 65% in April.
Furthermore, 78% feel safe in their neighborhoods, while just 21% expressed feeling unsafe.
The federal intervention has impacted local businesses. Vendor Yassin Yahyaoui reported a sharp decline in customers, noting that many, especially Spanish speakers, have vanished since the increased federal presence. Despite the widespread disapproval, some residents support the federal action, believing it will improve public safety.
Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller visited National Guard troops stationed at Union Station, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to the initiative. Vance praised the troops and dismissed the poll results, stating the operation has “brought some law and order back.”
The deployment, which began over a week ago when President Trump seized control of the D.C. police, has heightened tensions in the heavily Democratic city, where Trump received just over 6% of the vote in 2024. Residents who feel they are living under military occupation are increasingly clashing with federal forces.
National Guard troops from West Virginia, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Louisiana have arrived to support the operation, assisting with landmark protection and crowd control, mirroring the duties of D.C. National Guard members already deployed. These troops are being housed in military bases and hotels.
Since the operation began on August 7th, the White House reports 465 arrests, including 206 individuals deemed to be in the country illegally. This action follows an August 11th executive order granting President Trump 30-day control of the D.C. police. Any extension requires Congressional approval.