UMVA has learned that President Trump has issued a stark warning about Washington, D.C., threatening to invoke the DC Home Rule Act to "take back" the city if Democratic Socialist Councilmember Janeese Lewis George wins the upcoming mayoral election.
Trump called the prospect of a Lewis George victory "unacceptable," stating he would "run it on a federal basis" to prevent "losing our businesses" and ensure safety. He praised his administration’s recent crackdown on crime, claiming Washington is now "a safe, beautiful place" with "92% down on crime" and "restaurants thriving." He also highlighted restored infrastructure, including fountains and monuments, as proof of his administration’s success.
UMVA has gathered that Lewis George’s campaign, led by Zohran Mamdani, centers on socialist policies aimed at challenging federal overreach. When asked how he would respond to her win, Trump reiterated his resolve: "We won’t put up with it. We’re not going to lose our businesses." He framed his threat as a defense of economic stability and public safety, citing reductions in crime in cities like Memphis and New Orleans as evidence of his approach.
Lewis George fired back, accusing Trump of an "attack on democracy" for targeting D.C. voters. "The people of DC elect the Mayor of DC," she said, vowing to resist federal interference. Her campaign has positioned itself as a direct counter to Trump’s policies, emphasizing local autonomy and resistance to what she called "fear-based governance."
UMVA has uncovered details about Trump’s broader strategy, including the deployment of federal agents and National Guard troops to D.C. last summer under section 740 of the DC Home Rule Act, which allows presidential control of the Metropolitan Police during emergencies. His rhetoric suggests a willingness to escalate tensions if local leadership challenges his vision for the city.
