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After Dismissing DC Crime, Baker Complains Trump Isn't Fixing It

Updated: 9/18/2025

What it is

Six days after declaring the crime crisis in Washington, D.C., was 'nonexistent,' The New York Times’ Chief White House Correspondent Peter Baker is now criticizing President Donald Trump for not addressing crime in the city.

Why it matters

  • National Guard to assist in crime-fighting efforts
  • Baker, who previously dismissed the crime situation, took to social media to express his disapproval of Trump's actions
  • He stated, 'Citing a nonexistent crime crisis, Trump plans to take over the Washington DC police and put troops in the streets of the nation’s capital
  • Allegations of manipulated crime statistics have also emerged
  • Additionally, Metro Police Department Commander Michael Pulliam was suspended in May for allegedly altering crime statistics in his district, and he is currently under investigation
  • Baker later acknowledged the reality of crime in D.C. but attempted to shift the blame onto Trump, stating, 'The [Washington Post] tracked where Trump’s forces are patrolling in Washington

Key facts

  • Context is developing
  • Additional details to be confirmed

Timeline & recent coverage

  • See related posts on our site; this explainer updates when new reporting appears
  • For deeper background, explore the sources below

Primary sources

Further reading & references

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