Trump Vows to Remove Homeless from Washington, White House Refuses to Clarify Legal Basis
In a move that has sparked widespread debate, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced his intention to remove the homeless from Washington, D.C., and “imprison criminals,” as stated in a post on his personal platform Truth Social. The White House has not clarified the legal grounds for this decision.
Trump: Capital Will Be Safer and More Beautiful
In his post, Trump stated: “Homeless individuals must leave immediately. We will provide housing, but outside the capital. As for criminals, you do not have to leave. We will place you in prison where you belong.”
He also shared images showing tents and piles of garbage in Washington’s streets, pledging to make the capital “safer and more beautiful than ever before.”
White House Silent on Legal Basis
Despite the strong statements, the White House has refrained from providing legal clarification regarding Trump’s authority to enforce this decision, particularly as the president only has direct control over federal lands and buildings in the city, according to current laws.
Trump Plans Press Conference on Violence in the Capital
Trump is scheduled to hold a press conference today, Monday, to discuss his plan to address violence in Washington, D.C. However, it remains unclear whether he will reveal additional details about his plan to remove the homeless from the city.
Washington Mayor: No Increase in Crime Rates
In direct response to Trump’s statements, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, a member of the Democratic Party, denied any significant increase in crime rates, saying: “The capital is not experiencing a rise in violent crime.”
She also emphasized that Trump is fully aware of the city’s ongoing efforts with law enforcement authorities, following a prior meeting between the two at the White House.
Official Statistics: Decline in Crime Rates in Washington
According to Washington Police data, violent crime rates have dropped by 26% during the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. The overall crime rate also decreased by 7%.
Homeless Conditions in the Capital
Based on data from the Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness, approximately 800 individuals are living on the streets in Washington, while most of the homeless population resides in emergency shelters or temporary housing.
In a related development, a White House official stated that law enforcement presence has been increased following an incident of violent assault targeting a Trump administration employee, which caused the president to escalate his stance on crime and homelessness.
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