On Sunday, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that a significant operation led to the arrest of 68 people overnight in Washington, D.C. This marks a part of the federal government’s ongoing fight against crime, which was intensified after President Trump deployed the National Guard and took control of the city’s police force.
“There have been over 300 arrests in D.C. — and it’s still climbing. Just last night, our federal and D.C. law enforcement partners made 68 arrests and confiscated 15 illegal firearms,” Bondi stated in a tweet on X. “We are charging suspects involved in homicide, drug trafficking, and more. I’ll continue to work alongside you as we strive to make D.C. safe again!”
In a move that prompted criticism from both Democrats and local residents, Trump recently declared that he would gain federal control over the D.C. police department while also sending the National Guard into the area. This decision didn’t sit well with everyone.
Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House, even went as far as comparing D.C. to several war-torn regions. He tweeted that “graffiti is coming down in Washington, D.C.”
Miller elaborated in his Sunday post, stating that:
“Neglecting graffiti, which tarnishes public spaces, signifies a community’s resignation.”
Later in the day, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) referred to Trump’s recent actions in D.C. as nothing more than a “stunt” aimed at diverting attention from more pressing issues.
“What’s happening in Washington, D.C., is purely a trick for show. Trump is clearly rattled, especially since his own followers are beginning to question why he hasn’t released the Epstein files or why he’s seemingly protecting influential people,” Murphy shared on NBC News’ “Meet the Press.”
In an additional jab, he remarked about the looming healthcare crisis due to cuts his administration had enacted, citing that health premiums could increase by 75% for Americans.
Nevertheless, Republicans, along with the administration, have defended the crackdown, emphasizing its necessity due to elevated crime and murder rates within the district. They have been critical of city officials who they argue have failed in tackling the issue effectively.
A White House spokesperson informed The Hill’s sister network NewsNation that the D.C. enforcement effort on Saturday night involved 1,800 participants, clarifying that the National Guard were “not making arrests at this time.”
Updated at 4:57 p.m.
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