Democracies depend on the principle of self-governance, one of the great strengths of the United States and a value that we uphold; we believe in people’s capacity to govern themselves.
On Feb. 6, 2025, Republican Senator Mike Lee and Republican Congressman Andy Ogles of Tennessee, backed by President Donald Trump, introduced a bill to repeal the Home Rule Act of 1973 as they claimed the repeal would lead to effective management of crime and homelessness. The Home Rule Act established a council of 13 members, headed by the Washington, D.C. mayor, to govern the district.
This council allows D.C. to create laws, seek congressional approval and manage its budget. Stripping D.C. of the right to self-governance would undermine this principle. These congressional leaders seek to strip D.C. of the right to self-governance. If successful, the end of home rule would not only be a disaster for D.C., but would be a blemish on democracy as a whole.
D.C. was established as the nation’s capital on July 16, 1790 as a neutral zone ruled by appointed commissioners. By the 20th century, the city had changed. Its population size demanded a dedicated local government. The number of people living in D.C. has steadily increased, indicating a flourishing population. The city added 15,000 residents in 2023 alone, topping over 700,000 residents in 2024, according to Mayor Muriel Bowser of D.C.
Since the ratification of the Home Rule Act, D.C. has been able to thrive, provide for its citizens and become the revered city that it is today. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, in 2018, D.C.’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita was significantly higher than any other U.S. state, displaying its well-performing economy.
Some argue that repealing the Home Rule Act would help D.C. manage crime. In reality, the D.C. council’s work has efficiently and specifically worked toward combating that issue. According to the Department of Justice, crime has hit a 30-year low in D.C., clearly demonstrating that D.C. can address its own concerns.
In fact, despite its intentions to better manage crime, repealing the act would have a negative impact on crime rates. This is because D.C. has control over its local law enforcement and when repealed, it would be the federal government’s discretion. For example, D.C.’s ability to borrow money would be abolished, leading to issues involving locally overseen tasks. These include trash pickup, road maintenance and the construction of new schools and sports arenas, which bring people into the city for learning and entertainment.
President Trump has mentioned his belief that the government should “take over Washington, D.C. — make it safe,” according to Reuters. Specifically, President Trump thinks that there is significant work to be done in D.C. to remove homeless people and beautify the city in its entirety.
The U.S. capital is considered by some to be one of the most influential democratic cities in the world, and now, it may be infringed upon by the federal government. President Trump’s focus on D.C. and the federal executive’s authority over it could mark the sign of presidential expansion and seizure of control.
There is always room for improvement in the capital city, however, there is no indication in the new bill that there are specific measures to improve homelessness, beautification or other issues. President Trump has made statements to this effect, but we have yet to see a clear plan in writing.
In terms of democracy, the city of D.C. was established to grant citizens control over local affairs, but not direct congressional representation as a state. President Trump’s agenda of expanding federal governance into the city directly contradicts the principles of our democracy. The right to home rule should remain as it represents the spirit of democracy within our country.
