Protests in DC after Trump visits federal law enforcement officers amid takeover
Protesters demand end of federalization in DC
Protests have broken out for another night in the District as the Trump administration continues its federal takeover of the city, with officers from multiple law enforcement agencies patrolling the streets.
WASHINGTON - Protests broke out for another night in the District as the Trump administration continues its federal takeover of the city, with officers from multiple law enforcement agencies patrolling the streets.
So far, all of the protests have remained peaceful. There have been no reports of arrests during the demonstrations.
On Thursday, groups gathered at at 14th and U Streets in Northwest, and around Union Station where there is a heavy federal presence.
UPDATES: Trump patrols DC amidst federal takeover of MPD
What's happening:
Protesters have taken to the streets of D.C. for several nights since the Trump administration declared that federal officers with agencies including the FBI, ATF, HSI, ICE and National Guard troops would be flooding into the city.
The administration also took control of the Metropolitan Police Department, and other local agencies like U.S. Park Police are participating in the administration's crackdown.
Thursday night's main protest was seen at the intersection of 14th and U Streets, but Union Station has also become a flashpoint for protesters as it features one of the most visible posts for National Guard presence in the city.
On Thursday, Attorney General Pam Bondi said 630 arrests have been made, and 86 illegal firearms seized in the District since the federal takeover began. The administration has also been clearing homeless encampments, citing safety concerns.
What they're saying:
Protesters say this is both an overreaction and an overreach by the Trump administration.
"We appreciate our police and we need support, but we don't need a military presence and I'm worried it's going to provoke violence," one woman, Elise, told FOX 5.
Event organizer Kelsye Adams says this is not the way to reach the community and "free D.C." as Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance have said.
"Talking about statehood, talking about what a free D.C. looks like and true liberation for our people is how you educate and liberate your people," Adams said.
But another man told FOX 5 he supports Trump's action and has seen a difference in crime in his area.
"For me it's good because people do cause a lot of problems," Anacostia resident Jorge Cantos said. "The president is doing a really good job. Today it's really safe."