August 15, 2025
Dear Ward 5 neighbors,
I know many of you are rightfully concerned for our city in this moment. On Monday, President Trump issued executive orders invoking Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, a provision that permits the president to request the services of the Metropolitan Police Department for federal purposes for 30 days, and calling up the National Guard and other federal law enforcement agencies to crack down on a “crime emergency” in the District. Yesterday, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued an order claiming to place DEA Administrator Terry Cole in charge of MPD, replacing Chief Pamela Smith and assuming the Chief’s powers and responsibilities. The order also claimed to rescind MPD policies and to direct MPD officers to enforce laws and regulations pertaining to unlawful occupancy of public spaces.
These actions are an attack on Home Rule and the District of Columbia. This morning, Attorney General Brian Schwalb filed a lawsuit and motion for a temporary restraining order against the federal government to defend Home Rule. The lawsuit asks that the United States District Court for the District of Columbia declare that the federal government’s actions are illegal, block the U.S. Attorney General’s order, and ensure that control of MPD remains with the Mayor, the Chief, and the 700,000 people of the District of Columbia. Along with the Mayor and my Council colleagues, I fully support Attorney General Schwalb in his defense of the District.
