Protesters confront federal officers as Trump tightens grip on DC policing
Briefly

Protests erupted in Washington DC after Trump announced a takeover of the city's police department, involving the deployment of the National Guard. Federal law enforcement officers, including those from the Department of Homeland Security, set up checkpoints, leading to numerous vehicle stops for minor infractions. Over 100 arrests were reported since the takeover announcement, triggering strong opposition from Senate Democrats. Trump's move relies on the DC Home Rule Act but faces challenges in Congress, with the possibility of an emergency declaration to extend his control.
Protesters heckled federal law enforcement officials as they reportedly stopped dozens of cars at a checkpoint along a busy street in Washington DC. Around 20 law enforcement officers, some from the Department of Homeland Security, pulled over drivers for infractions like broken taillights and seatbelt violations, leading to over 100 protests. Authorities have made more than 100 arrests since Trump announced his takeover on Monday, with the Metropolitan police department reporting 74 arrests on Wednesday alone.
DC's Home Rule Act of 1973 permits the president to take control of the city's police force for 30 days for federal purposes. Trump has hinted at seeking to extend the period beyond 30 days, which would require authorization from Congress.
Chuck Schumer, the Democratic leader in the Senate, stated that his party would strongly oppose Trump's efforts to extend the police takeover. He declared that they would fight him tooth and nail.
Trump suggested that if Congress does not approve the extension, he could declare a national emergency to unilaterally extend the police takeover, emphasizing the portrayal of Washington DC as a crime-ridden area.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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