Trump Revives Threat to Take Over DC After DOGE Worker Assaulted in Carjacking Attempt

Trump Reiterates Threat to Federalize Washington, D.C. Following Assault Incident

President Donald Trump has once again raised the possibility of federalizing Washington, D.C., following an incident in which a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employee was attacked during an attempted carjacking. The president expressed frustration with the city’s crime rate and the handling of juvenile offenders, suggesting that the local government must improve or face federal intervention.

Trump addressed reporters on Tuesday, stating, “I have to say that somebody from DOGE was very badly hurt… A young man who was beat up by a bunch of thugs in DC, and either they’re gonna straighten their act out in the terms of government and in terms of protection or we’re gonna have to federalize and run it the way it’s supposed to be run.” His remarks came after Edward Coristine, a 19-year-old former DOGE worker, was assaulted during an attempted carjacking in the city.

According to a DC Police Department incident report obtained by DISCOVER TREND affiliate WUSA, Coristine and another individual were surrounded by approximately 10 juveniles and attacked. When police arrived, the suspects fled. Two 15-year-olds were later arrested and charged with unarmed carjacking.

Coristine had previously been involved in a government overhaul initiative through DOGE, serving as a senior advisor with access to departments such as Homeland Security and FEMA. He later joined the Social Security Administration to work on its website, according to an agency spokesperson.

Trump took to Truth Social to express his outrage over the crime situation in D.C., writing, “Crime in Washington, D.C., is totally out of control. Local ‘youths’ and gang members, some only 14, 15, and 16-years-old, are randomly attacking, mugging, maiming, and shooting innocent Citizens, at the same time knowing that they will be almost immediately released.”

He called for stricter legal consequences for minors, saying, “The Law in D.C. must be changed to prosecute these ‘minors’ as adults, and lock them up for a long time, starting at age 14.” Trump added that if local authorities fail to address the issue, he would consider taking over the city entirely.

Billionaire Elon Musk, who previously led DOGE, echoed Trump’s sentiment, writing on X: “It is time to federalize DC.”

Federal Takeover Considered

On Wednesday, Trump expanded on his previous threats, suggesting that his administration might take over the D.C. Police Department and potentially bring in the National Guard. “We’re considering it, yeah, because the crime is ridiculous,” he told reporters. He also mentioned the possibility of overturning D.C. Home Rule, which grants local government entities authority over certain aspects of governance.

“We’re going to look at that – in fact, they are, the lawyers are already studying it,” Trump said. “We have to run DC. This has to be the best run place in the country, not the worst run place in the country.”

U.S. Attorney for D.C., Jeanine Pirro, supported Trump’s stance, telling Fox News, “(These kids) need to have consequences, they need to understand that enough is enough.” She added that the president wants to end the current situation and take action.

Despite Trump’s claims about rising crime, preliminary data from the D.C. Police Department shows that violent crime is down by 26% compared to last year. However, local officials remain concerned about the city’s ability to handle its criminal justice system.

Political Tensions and Local Responses

DC Councilmember Christina Henderson acknowledged the concern over violence but also pointed to systemic issues. She noted that the city is frustrated with the lack of judges to handle the criminal caseload, citing delays caused by the Senate not confirming enough judicial nominees.

Mayor Muriel Bowser has taken a cautious approach during Trump’s second term, avoiding direct confrontation despite her role in the Democratic resistance during his first term. Earlier this year, she removed the Black Lives Matter Plaza mural after pressure from Republicans, stating that the city faces more pressing financial and existential challenges under the new administration.

Trump has long advocated for federal control over D.C., emphasizing the need for law and order. In February, he stated, “I think that we should govern District of Columbia. It’s so important, the DC situation. I think that we should run it strong, run it with law and order.”

In March, he signed an executive order establishing a “D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force” to enhance federal involvement in city issues, including stricter enforcement of public safety laws.

As tensions continue to rise, the debate over the future of D.C. governance remains a focal point of political discourse.