Congress Preparing To Debate Crime Bill Amid Trump’s DC Crackdown
Lawmakers in Congress are preparing to review a proposed crime bill as President Donald Trump continues his public push to reduce crime in Washington, D.C. The White House has indicated that a formal legislative package will be sent to Capitol Hill in the coming weeks, though many details are still being finalized.
During a recent public statement, President Trump said his administration plans to request congressional support for new crime-focused measures aimed specifically at the nation’s capital. He explained that the initial focus would be on improving public safety in Washington, D.C., along with infrastructure upgrades such as street repairs and neighborhood improvements. The administration also indicated that the funding request would be relatively modest in size but targeted toward immediate public safety needs.
Following the announcement, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina confirmed that he had spoken directly with the president, the U.S. Attorney General, and White House staff about how Congress could assist in strengthening law enforcement efforts in the district. He said preparations are underway for a funding proposal designed to support local and federal law enforcement cooperation.
Attorney General Pam Bondi also released a statement saying the Department of Justice will continue working with the Metropolitan Police Department, federal agencies, and Congress to address violent crime and ensure safety for residents, workers, and visitors in Washington, D.C. She emphasized that public safety in the capital remains a national priority.
According to congressional leaders, the White House is finalizing a security funding package that will be sent to key lawmakers who oversee homeland security spending. Lawmakers will then decide whether the proposal should be included in a broader government funding bill or introduced as a standalone measure.
Congress is currently in recess and is not scheduled to return until after Labor Day. Once lawmakers reconvene, they will immediately face a deadline at the end of September to pass legislation funding the federal government for the new fiscal year. In addition to the crime bill, Congress is also expected to address the president’s request to extend temporary federal authority over certain aspects of Washington, D.C.’s police operations. Under current law, that authority expires after 30 days unless extended by Congress through a joint resolution.
Many Republican lawmakers have voiced support for granting the president additional time to implement his public safety plan. However, passage of an extension would require bipartisan support in the Senate. Several Democratic leaders have already indicated concerns about expanding federal control over local policing in the district, suggesting the issue could face significant debate.
As of now, no final legislative text has been released. Lawmakers from both parties say discussions will continue once Congress returns, with public safety, local governance, and budget priorities expected to be central topics in the weeks ahead.
