Rep. Troy Carter Statement on Home Rule and Trump Seizing Control of Washington D.C. Police Force, Implications in New Orleans

EW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

“The President’s attempt to seize control of Washington, D.C.’s police force—and his suggestion that he may do the same in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago—is an alarming and dangerous overreach by the Executive Branch.

“Our nation’s system of governance is built on the principle of Home Rule—the local community’s own constitution—that gives cities and municipalities the ability to govern themselves without undue interference from higher levels of government. This principle is not a partisan luxury; it is a cornerstone of American democracy, designed to ensure that local leaders, who understand the needs and values of their communities best, make decisions for their residents.

“The intrusion we see today is not just bad for Washington, D.C.—it is bad for every city and town in America, red or blue. If the President truly wants to help cities address crime and safety, there are ways to partner with local governments without usurping their authority or undermining their democratic rights.

“This sets a dangerous precedent. Allowing the federal government to override local governance erodes the very foundation of our democracy. It opens the door for politically motivated takeovers based on partisan targeting rather than public safety.

“Here in New Orleans, we are committed to protecting the rights of our residents to self-govern and to maintain control over our public safety. We will always welcome true collaboration from our federal partners—but never at the expense of our Home Rule Charter or the democratic principles we swore to uphold.”

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