The Trump administration is planning to reduce security funding for Washington, D.C. despite the president’s directive to increase federal law enforcement presence in response to the city’s high crime rates.
According to a recent grant notice from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), D.C.’s urban security fund will see a 44% decrease from the previous year, totaling $25.2 million. The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees FEMA, stated that the funding cuts were made to align with the current threat landscape. Other cities, including Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Jersey City, also experienced reductions in their security funds.
The decrease in funding for D.C. was the most significant among urban areas that received funding from the program last fiscal year. This decision comes as DHS notes a shift in threats from large-scale coordinated attacks to smaller, simpler assaults, increasing the vulnerability of soft targets in urban areas.
Violent crime in D.C. decreased by 35% between 2023 and 2024, with notable drops in homicides, sexual abuse, assault with a dangerous weapon, robberies, and burglaries. The federal funding covers security needs in the National Capital Region, which includes D.C. and surrounding cities in Maryland and Virginia.
FEMA has allocated $553.5 million to support cities across the U.S. in enhancing security measures. It remains unclear how much of the National Capital Region’s total security budget comes from this program.
In response to rising crime rates, President Trump has called for increased federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C. He expressed concerns about the safety of citizens and highlighted the need to address the escalating violence in the city.
Local officials have previously utilized federal funds for various security initiatives, including hazmat training, officer recruitment, and upgrading emergency communication networks. Trump’s recent directives aim to tackle the growing crime problem and ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the nation’s capital.
The president emphasized the importance of making Washington, D.C. a safe and attractive city for both Americans and visitors from around the world. He warned that if the city does not improve its crime situation, federal intervention may be necessary to restore order and hold criminals accountable for their actions.
Overall, the administration’s decision to reduce security funding for D.C. comes amid efforts to address the city’s crime challenges and enhance public safety.
