AP News Summary at 12:58 a.m. EDT

Opinion:

The recent appointment of DEA Administrator Terry Cole as Washington, D.C.'s "emergency police commissioner" by Attorney General Pam Bondi is a significant development that raises critical questions about the balance of power between federal and local authorities, particularly in the context of policing strategies and community safety. This unprecedented move comes at a time when communities across the United States are grappling with the consequences of aggressive drug enforcement policies and the broader implications of federal oversight in local governance. Notably, this situation echoes historical examples where federal intervention in local affairs has led to strained relationships with communities, especially marginalized ones.

At the heart of this appointment lies a long-standing tension between local governance and federal authority. The District of Columbia, as a federal district, has often been subject to unique political dynamics that can undermine local autonomy. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s assertion that Bondi’s directive is "unlawful" reflects a broader principle that local governments should maintain control over their policing practices. Historically, the imposition of federal oversight has too frequently resulted in a disconnect between law enforcement and the communities they serve, often exacerbating issues of mistrust and systemic injustice. The communities that have borne the brunt of these policies are typically those most affected by the war on drugs, which has disproportionately impacted communities of color.

The implications of appointing a DEA head to oversee local policing cannot be understated, especially in light of the ongoing social struggles surrounding police reform and accountability. In recent years, movements such as Black Lives Matter have highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes in policing practices that address not only the enforcement of drug laws but also the broader social injustices that lead to criminalization. This federal takeover could undermine ongoing local reform efforts aimed at reducing police violence, ensuring transparency, and fostering community trust. If local leaders are sidelined in favor of a federal enforcement strategy, it may further alienate the very communities that policing should seek to protect and serve.

Moreover, this development must be contextualized within the broader political landscape shaped by the Trump administration's approach to law enforcement and criminal justice. The administration has consistently prioritized punitive measures over rehabilitative approaches, mirroring a historical trend that dates back several decades. The war on drugs has not only failed to address the root causes of substance abuse but has also perpetuated cycles of poverty and incarceration. By empowering a federal drug enforcement official to dictate local policing strategies, the government risks perpetuating these systemic failures rather than addressing the underlying issues that contribute to drug-related crime.

In light of this turn of events, it is essential for citizens and activists to remain vigilant and engaged. The pushback from local leaders like Mayor Bowser and the D.C. attorney general is a necessary counterbalance to federal overreach. It serves as a reminder of the importance of local control and the need for policies that reflect the values and needs of the community. As discussions around policing, drug policy, and community safety continue to evolve, it is imperative that advocates for social justice remain informed and proactive in pushing for reforms that prioritize equity and accountability. The future of D.C.'s policing, and indeed the broader landscape of American law enforcement, hinges on the ability of local voices to resist federal encroachments and advocate for a more just and humane approach to public safety.

Action:

The recent appointment of DEA head Terry Cole as Washington, D.C.'s "emergency police commissioner" raises significant concerns about the intersection of federal authority and local governance. This move comes amid an increasingly contentious political climate marked by the Trump administration's aggressive approach to law enforcement and drug policy. The decision by Attorney General Pam Bondi to empower Cole with police chief responsibilities reflects an alarming trend towards federal overreach in local matters, particularly in a city that has historically navigated complex issues surrounding law enforcement and civil rights.

Historically, Washington, D.C. has been a focal point for discussions about police authority and federal intervention. The Home Rule Act of 1973 granted the District some autonomy, allowing local leaders to govern day-to-day affairs. However, this latest action undermines that autonomy, challenging the very principles of self-governance that many residents fought hard to establish. Local leaders, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Attorney General Karl Racine, have rightfully pushed back against Bondi's order, emphasizing that there is no legal framework that supports such a federal takeover of local law enforcement. This situation echoes past instances where federal authorities have intervened in local jurisdictions, often leading to tensions that exacerbate issues of trust between communities and the police.

As citizens, we must recognize that such actions are not isolated incidents but rather part of a broader pattern of federal encroachment into local governance. The implications of this appointment extend beyond D.C.; they signal a potential precedent for other regions across the country. To combat this, we must advocate for the preservation of local control over policing and public safety. Engaging with our local representatives to express discontent with federal overreach is a vital step in ensuring that communities remain empowered to address their unique challenges without undue interference.

Moreover, this situation calls for a critical examination of our national drug policy and its enforcement. The appointment of a DEA official to oversee policing raises questions about the priorities of law enforcement in a city where issues such as drug addiction, systemic racism, and community safety intersect. Rather than focusing on punitive measures, we should advocate for a public health approach to drug use, promoting harm reduction strategies and support for mental health services. This shift requires a reallocation of resources and a fundamental rethinking of how we approach drug-related issues in our communities.

Educationally, it is essential to inform ourselves and our communities about the historical dynamics of police authority and federalism. Understanding the Home Rule Act and the implications of federal interventions can empower citizens to challenge unjust policies. Community forums, workshops, and discussions can serve as platforms for dialogue and mobilization, fostering a collective understanding of our rights and responsibilities. By building awareness and solidarity, we can create a more just and equitable system of governance that prioritizes the voices and needs of the people over the dictates of federal authorities. In our pursuit of a fairer society, it is crucial to remain vigilant and engaged, advocating for the rights of local jurisdictions to self-govern and prioritize public safety in ways that reflect the values and needs of their communities.

To Do:

The recent appointment of the DEA head as Washington D.C.’s "emergency police commissioner" raises significant concerns regarding local governance, community safety, and the potential militarization of police forces. Here are several actionable steps we can take to voice our concerns and advocate for local control while fostering community-oriented policing policies:

### Personal Actions We Can Take:

1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Stay informed about local and federal policing issues. Share articles, analysis, and discussions on social media to raise awareness within your community. - Host or attend community forums focused on public safety and police accountability.

2. **Engage with Local Representatives**: - Contact your local representatives to express your concerns about the federal intervention in local policing matters. - Show up at town hall meetings or city council sessions to voice your opinion and ask questions.

3. **Support Local Organizations**: - Identify and support local organizations working towards police reform and community safety. Volunteer your time or donate to groups like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) or local advocacy groups.

### Specific Actions to Take:

1. **Petition for Local Control**: - **Create or sign a petition** advocating for local control over policing. Use platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org to gather signatures. - Example: A petition titled “Keep DC Policing Local” can be created to demand the repeal of Bondi’s directive.

2. **Contact Local Leaders**: - **Write to local representatives** to express your views. Use the following template to guide your message: ``` Dear [Representative's Name],

I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent decision to appoint the DEA head as D.C.’s emergency police commissioner. This decision undermines local governance and community trust in law enforcement. I urge you to take a stand for local control and ensure that policing remains accountable to the communities it serves.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```

- **Who to write to**: - **Mayor Muriel Bowser** Email: [mayor@dc.gov](mailto:mayor@dc.gov) Mailing Address: 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 316, Washington, DC 20004

- **Attorney General Karl Racine** Email: [oag@dc.gov](mailto:oag@dc.gov) Mailing Address: 400 6th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

- **Councilmember Charles Allen (Chair of the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety)** Email: [callen@dccouncil.us](mailto:callen@dccouncil.us) Mailing Address: 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 110, Washington, DC 20004

3. **Utilize Social Media**: - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share your concerns using hashtags related to policing and local governance. - Tag local leaders and organizations in your posts to increase visibility.

4. **Attend Public Meetings**: - Participate in D.C. Council meetings or community safety forums to voice your concerns directly and hold local officials accountable. - Keep an eye on the D.C. Council’s calendar for upcoming meetings related to policing and public safety.

5. **Organize or Join a Rally**: - Organize or find rallies that advocate for community control of policing and against the federal takeover. - Reach out to local activist groups for collaboration and support, such as Black Lives Matter or local grassroots organizations.

By taking these steps, we can collectively push back against federal overreach in policing and advocate for a system that prioritizes community safety, accountability, and local governance. Each action contributes to a larger movement for justice and equitable public safety.