Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser recently met with President-elect Donald Trump to discuss their shared priorities for the city. The meeting, described as “great” by Bowser, focused on their mutual desire for the nation’s capital to be the best and most beautiful city in the world, reflecting the strength of the United States.
During their discussion, Bowser and Trump highlighted areas for collaboration between the local and federal government, including the federal workforce, underutilized federal buildings, parks, green spaces, and infrastructure. Bowser expressed optimism about finding common ground with the President during his second term and looks forward to supporting a successful inauguration on January 20.
This collaborative effort marks a significant shift from Trump’s previous rhetoric about the city. During his campaign, Trump made promises to “federalize” DC due to concerns about rising crime rates. He referred to Washington as a “dirty, crime-ridden death trap” and pledged to take over the city to improve law enforcement and aesthetics.
In 2023, Washington, DC saw a spike in murders, prompting Congress to intervene and block changes to the criminal code that would have reduced penalties for violent crimes. However, in 2024, the murder rate decreased by 32% and overall violent crime fell by 35%, showing progress in addressing the city’s crime issues.
Despite their past differences, Bowser and Trump have now found common ground in their efforts to improve Washington, DC. This recent meeting builds on their previous interactions and sets the stage for continued collaboration in the future.
It is evident that both Bowser and Trump share a commitment to making Washington, DC a safer and more vibrant city for its residents and visitors. As they work together to address the city’s challenges and capitalize on its potential, the partnership between the local and federal government holds promise for a more prosperous future for the nation’s capital.
