President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the White House will seek a congressional resolution to keep federal control of Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department in place beyond the 30-day period allowed under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. The president, who assumed command of the force on Monday citing an emergency crime crackdown, told reporters he wants “long-term extensions” and predicted near-unanimous Republican support. Trump also signaled he might bypass Capitol Hill if lawmakers balk. “If it’s a national emergency, we can do it without Congress,” he said, suggesting he could invoke emergency powers to prolong the takeover. Legal scholars note the Home Rule Act requires a joint resolution of Congress for any period exceeding 30 days, and opponents argue a unilateral extension would likely face court challenges. The federal action is coupled with a broader security push that has deployed about 800 National Guard troops and more than a dozen federal agencies across the city. The White House says the operation has led to 103 arrests since Aug. 7. Trump added that the administration will propose a crime bill tailored to the capital and will ask for additional spending on public-safety and “beautification” projects. Republicans control both chambers of Congress, but extending federal authority would still need 60 votes to clear the Senate, requiring at least some Democratic support. District officials, citing data that violent crime has fallen sharply since a 2023 spike, have not endorsed the takeover and are reviewing their legal options.