Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has publicly endorsed President Donald Trump’s plan to address rising crime in Washington, D.C., which includes activating the National Guard and federalizing the Metropolitan Police Department. Christie called the measures ‘long overdue,’ emphasizing that the federal government must take responsibility for maintaining law and order in the nation’s capital. The decision follows a surge in violent crime and recent incidents, including a brutal assault on a former DOGE staffer.
Trump announced the deployment of National Guard troops and the transfer of the Metropolitan Police Department to Attorney General Pam Bondi’s oversight to combat crime in the nation’s capital. The president stated that the move aims to ‘reestablish law, order, and public safety’ in Washington, D.C., following a significant increase in violent crime. This decision comes after a violent assault on a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer in August, which sparked calls for stronger law enforcement action. Christie, who has occasionally criticized Trump in the past, expressed hope that the president’s plan would restore order and improve the city’s reputation as a destination for visitors.
Christie also commented on the New Jersey gubernatorial race, suggesting that Republican Jack Ciattarelli has a ‘legitimate shot’ at defeating Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill, arguing that voters are increasingly frustrated with one-party dominance in the state.