Trump threatens to overtake DC if mayoral election doesn't go his way
An aerial view, taken through the window of an airplane, of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., U.S., June 11, 2026. REUTERS/Graeme Sloan
June 13, 2026
President Donald Trump threatened Thursday to take over Washington, D.C., on a federal basis if democratic socialist Janeese Lewis George wins next week's Democratic primary for mayor.
Trump told Oval Office reporters he wouldn't like it if Lewis George prevails, reported The Washington Post. Currently, Lewis Georg is leading the polls.
“We are not going to get ICE off our streets by fearing this president. We are not going to protect our rights or Home Rule by obeying in advance. Threatening Home Rule because you do not like how residents vote is an attack on democracy itself. The people of DC elect the mayor of DC. And they want someone who will stand up to Donald Trump,” Lewis George responded.
While Trump has the authority to temporarily seize control of the city's police department and deploy the D.C. National Guard — like he did last year — he is legally barred from unilaterally revoking the city's right to self-government without congressional approval, The Washington Post reported.
Trump has not explained his opposition to Lewis George beyond her association with democratic socialist policies.
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