On September 25, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum directing the Attorney General and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia to enforce federal capital punishment laws. The memorandum mandates that prosecutors seek the death penalty in cases where evidence supports such a sentence, emphasizing the administration’s focus on addressing serious crimes in the capital. This enforcement is presented as a response to rising crime rates, with the District of Columbia experiencing a homicide rate significantly higher than many other major cities in the United States.

The memorandum builds upon previous executive actions taken by President Trump, including an Executive Order aimed at restoring the enforcement of federal death penalty laws. The administration argues that stricter enforcement of the death penalty is essential for ensuring safety and justice in the nation’s capital, which has been described as facing a crime emergency. This initiative is framed within the broader context of efforts to enhance public safety, including the mobilization of law enforcement and the establishment of task forces aimed at revitalizing Washington, D.C.

In his remarks, President Trump emphasized the need to restore safety and beauty to the capital, reflecting his campaign promise to enhance security for both residents and visitors. He has criticized the city’s policies in recent years for contributing to crime levels and has taken steps, such as mobilizing the National Guard, to restore order. The focus on capital punishment is presented as a critical tool in this broader strategy to combat crime and improve the overall condition of Washington, D.C.

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