Washington, D.C. – Thousands of anti-Trump demonstrators stormed the streets of the nation’s capital on Saturday, marching from Malcolm X Park to Lafayette Park near the White House in protest of President Donald Trump’s aggressive crackdown on crime and illegal immigration.
The protest, branded “We Are All DC,” was organized by progressive activist groups who claim Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops and federal law enforcement has turned D.C. into a “military zone.”
“The American people will not bow to dictators. We will march, resist, and peacefully protest,” wrote the far-left group Democracy Forward on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This comes as Trump continues to deliver on his promise to restore law and order to a city plagued by violent crime, homelessness, and open-border policies left behind by the Biden administration.
National Guard Deployment Extended
For weeks, armed National Guard soldiers and federal agents have been stationed throughout D.C., setting up checkpoints and working alongside local police to target gang activity, illegal immigrants, and homeless encampments that have grown dangerously close to historic landmarks and residential areas.
The Trump administration confirmed that the Guard’s deployment will continue through December, ensuring service members receive full benefits for their mission to keep the city safe.
This move reflects Trump’s hardline stance on security — a top priority for his second term.
Protestors Claim “Militarized Zone”
Progressive activists painted a very different picture. Radical groups like Free DC accused Trump’s administration of “harassing and violently arresting our neighbors,” even alleging that children were being unfairly targeted by police for simply “being outside.”
Large crowds of demonstrators carried anti-Trump signs and chanted slogans demanding Congress “end Trump’s takeover” of the city. Many also pushed for full statehood for D.C., a move conservatives warn would permanently lock in Democratic political control.
Republicans Take Action
On Friday, House Republicans unveiled new legislation designed to curb D.C.’s failed leadership and return power to Congress.
The proposals include:
- Requiring D.C.’s city council to submit every proposed bill to Congress for approval.
- Lowering the age at which violent juveniles can be charged as adults.
- Harsher penalties for those who deface federal buildings and monuments.
These measures come amid growing frustration from conservative lawmakers over D.C.’s spiraling crime rate and weak local government response.
Mayor Bowser Faces Backlash
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) signed an order on Tuesday to expand cooperation with federal agencies, building a direct line of communication between city leaders and national officials.
However, many local progressives and left-leaning city council members opposed the move, insisting that federal involvement is “unnecessary” — even as violent crime continues to climb.
The Bigger Picture
President Trump has made public safety and border security cornerstones of his administration. By extending the National Guard’s mission, he’s sending a clear message that America’s capital will not fall victim to lawlessness.
While liberal activists are furious, many residents and visitors say the increased security brings a much-needed sense of order to a city that has been overrun by chaos for years.