Trump Teases Federal Takeover of D.C. if Socialist Candidate Wins

Recent polling shows George holding a double-digit lead over former D.C. Council member Kenyan McDuffie ahead of the June 16 Democratic primary.

The remarks immediately intensified an already heated debate over the future of the nation’s capital and the scope of federal authority over local government.

Washington operates under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which grants residents the ability to elect their own mayor and city council while still leaving Congress with ultimate authority over the district.

Trump has repeatedly argued that the federal government should play a larger role in governing Washington, citing concerns about crime, homelessness, public safety, and economic development.

“We have a thriving community,” Trump said Thursday. “We got rid of crime.”