Takeover

President Trump is taking the wheel in D.C.

On Monday, Trump announced he’s temporarily taking control of the D.C. Metropolitan Police and deploying the city’s National Guard (they’re under presidential control—unlike state guards), to make “crime, savagery, filth, and scum…disappear.” Deployed troops will establish a presence and report their observations directly to officers, but are not expected to openly carry weapons.

Under the Home Rule Act of 1973, the president can federalize D.C.’s police in 48-hour chunks during “emergencies”; this takeover is expected to last 30 days. 

Although D.C.’s violent crime hit a three-decade low last year, it still ranks near the top of U.S. cities for homicides per capita. Critics call Trump’s move “disproportionate” and politically motivated. A long-term federal takeover would require Congress’s approval, where Democrats would likely block it. 

(We’re also covering this story tomorrow in Decaf, The Pour Over for Families. Sign up—for free—here.)

CHOOSE HUMILITY
Politically charged announcements are sure to spark heated debate. Remember that both your stance and how you take your stance reflect on Christ.

“My dear brothers and sisters, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for human anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness.” 
James 1:19-20 (CSB) (read full passage)