Statement in response to Trump’s Authoritarian Takeover of D.C. Police

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 19, 2025

Media Contact:

Michael Suchecki, CPSA Communications Director
ProgressiveStaffers@gmail.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Progressive Staff Association (CPSA) today released the following statement on Donald Trump’s authoritarian takeover of Washington, D.C. and the Metropolitan Police Department:

“The presence of the National Guard, ICE, and masked agents in Washington isn’t a sign of protection, it’s one of occupation. Trump’s attempted political takeover of our city’s law enforcement has created a climate of fear for staffers and vulnerable community members now forced to navigate a city blotted with Trump’s armored convoys and random checkpoints.

“While Trump claims crime in Washington is out of control, his own administration disagrees: FBI data shows D.C. doesn’t even rank in the top 30 major cities for crimes committed against people. It is clear the goal is not about safety, but about political intimidation, surveillance, and control.

“D.C. residents and congressional staffers deserve to live without fear of being targeted or disappeared by Trump’s would-be secret police. As this administration continues its assault on the rule of law, the Congressional Progressive Staff Association remains committed to standing with our members and neighbors in demanding dignity, safety, and statehood for the District we call home.”

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CPSA was formed in 2021 to uplift the voices and experiences of progressive staff. We believe by educating people on the issues impacting staff and advocating for structural reform, we can inspire meaningful change for congressional employees across the country. With over 1,500 members, CPSA is the largest staff association on Capitol Hill and is growing every day.