President Donald Trump stated that he could pursue greater federal control over Washington, D.C., if democratic socialist candidate Janeese Lewis George wins the upcoming Democratic primary for mayor.

Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump expressed opposition to Lewis George's candidacy but did not provide detailed policy reasons beyond her association with democratic socialist positions.At the time of his remarks, Lewis George was reported to be leading in polling ahead of the primary election.Lewis George responded by criticizing Trump's comments, arguing that residents of Washington, D.C., have the right to choose their own local leaders without federal interference.

She said that threatening the city's self-governance because of voter preferences undermines democratic principles and the district's Home Rule authority.She also emphasized that local residents, not the federal government, elect the city's mayor.The controversy centers on the unique political status of Washington, D.C.

While the president has certain powers over the district, including the ability under specific circumstances to assume temporary control of the Metropolitan Police Department and deploy the D.C.National Guard, legal experts note that a president cannot unilaterally eliminate the city's self-government.Any permanent revocation or major alteration of D.C.'s Home Rule framework would require action by Congress.

Trump's comments have intensified debate over federal authority in the nation's capital and the balance between local self-government and federal oversight.

The exchange has also become a focal point in the mayoral race, drawing attention to broader political disagreements over governance, public safety, immigration enforcement, and the future of D.C.'s autonomy.