Defend DC Home Rule: Reject Federal Takeover of Local Police

On Thursday, the Department of Justice attempted to impose Terry Cole, the head of the DEA, as the 'emergency police commissioner' of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), stripping local leaders of their authority. This move was challenged in federal court by D.C. officials, who rightfully called it a 'brazen usurpation' of the District's authority and a threat to the operational integrity of the MPD.

The Trump administration’s order, issued under the guise of a public safety emergency, would have forced MPD leadership to seek approval from a federal appointee before making decisions, undermining local policies on immigration and public safety. This is a clear violation of the Home Rule Act, which was designed to ensure that D.C. residents have control over their own government and police force.

Local control is fundamental to democracy. Federal interference in D.C.’s policing threatens not only the rights of its residents but also sets a dangerous precedent for undermining local governance across the country. We call on the Department of Justice and Congress to immediately halt all attempts at federal takeover of the MPD and to reaffirm the principles of self-determination and local democracy for D.C.