President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that his administration is weighing whether to assume direct control of Washington, D.C., a move that would upend the U.S. capital’s half-century of limited self-government. Speaking during a Cabinet meeting, Trump argued that federal oversight could reduce crime and improve city services, declaring, “We could run D.C.… we’re looking at D.C.” Under the 1973 Home Rule Act, the District elects its own mayor and council, but Congress retains ultimate authority over its laws and budget. Revoking that arrangement would almost certainly require new legislation from Congress and the president’s signature. Trump said his chief of staff, Susie Wiles, is in “close touch” with Mayor Muriel Bowser, who supports statehood for the city’s roughly 700,000 residents. Bowser’s office declined to comment on the remarks. Trump also suggested the White House might intervene in New York City if Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani wins November’s mayoral election, calling the candidate a “disaster.” The comments revive legal and political questions about the extent of federal power over municipalities—issues likely to face stiff opposition and court challenges should the administration attempt to act on the threats.