Trump faces mounting criticism over DC policing, visa crackdown and Fed dismissal
TOI World Desk | Aug 27, 2025, 23:47 IST
US President Donald Trump faces mounting criticism over a federal law enforcement surge in DC, a contested attempt to fire Fed Governor Lisa Cook, and a visa crackdown targeting students, journalists, and exchange visitors. DC Mayor Bowser highlighted community distrust, while legal and political challenges continue to shadow Trump’s aggressive agenda, including a controversial Gaza aid meeting.
US President Donald Trump is facing intensifying scrutiny as his administration pushes ahead with controversial federal takeovers, immigration restrictions, and a proposed firing at the Federal Reserve, all amid sagging public approval.
On Wednesday, Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser offered a rare mix of praise and criticism, stating that while she “greatly appreciates” the surge in federal officers that has led to an 87% drop in carjackings, there remains a “break in trust” between federal law enforcement and local communities. “Masked ICE agents and National Guard deployments from out of state have not worked,” Bowser said during a press briefing. She also voiced concern over Trump’s potential plan to extend federal control of DC’s police force beyond the 30-day limit allowed under the DC Home Rule Act, something that would require Congressional approval.
Meanwhile, controversy continues over the president’s attempt to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, told CNN that Trump had not yet decided on Cook’s replacement but had “somebody in mind.” Trump has accused Cook of mortgage fraud, though she has not been charged, and her legal team argues the president lacks the authority to dismiss her. Cook is expected to challenge her removal in court.
In parallel, the Trump administration is drawing fire over a proposed visa overhaul that would shorten stays for students, cultural exchange visitors, and foreign journalists. The new regulation seeks to impose fixed durations: four years for students and exchange workers, and as little as 90 days for Chinese media personnel. Visa holders would be required to apply for extensions to stay beyond these limits. The administration claims the move is intended to better “monitor and oversee” foreign nationals, but critics view it as part of a broader crackdown on legal immigration.
Adding to the administration's hardline stance, officials confirmed that the Department of Transportation would reclaim control of Washington’s Union Station from Amtrak, citing long-term neglect. “We will help make this city safe and beautiful at a fraction of the cost,” said Secretary Sean Duffy.
Elsewhere, Trump announced he would chair a high-level White House meeting on Gaza, with former UK PM Tony Blair and Jared Kushner expected to participate. The meeting aims to outline a “comprehensive” post-war aid plan, amid growing criticism of stalled humanitarian efforts.
As the president pushes forward on multiple fronts, legal battles and political pushback loom large, further complicating his already embattled second term.
On Wednesday, Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser offered a rare mix of praise and criticism, stating that while she “greatly appreciates” the surge in federal officers that has led to an 87% drop in carjackings, there remains a “break in trust” between federal law enforcement and local communities. “Masked ICE agents and National Guard deployments from out of state have not worked,” Bowser said during a press briefing. She also voiced concern over Trump’s potential plan to extend federal control of DC’s police force beyond the 30-day limit allowed under the DC Home Rule Act, something that would require Congressional approval.
Meanwhile, controversy continues over the president’s attempt to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, told CNN that Trump had not yet decided on Cook’s replacement but had “somebody in mind.” Trump has accused Cook of mortgage fraud, though she has not been charged, and her legal team argues the president lacks the authority to dismiss her. Cook is expected to challenge her removal in court.
In parallel, the Trump administration is drawing fire over a proposed visa overhaul that would shorten stays for students, cultural exchange visitors, and foreign journalists. The new regulation seeks to impose fixed durations: four years for students and exchange workers, and as little as 90 days for Chinese media personnel. Visa holders would be required to apply for extensions to stay beyond these limits. The administration claims the move is intended to better “monitor and oversee” foreign nationals, but critics view it as part of a broader crackdown on legal immigration.
Adding to the administration's hardline stance, officials confirmed that the Department of Transportation would reclaim control of Washington’s Union Station from Amtrak, citing long-term neglect. “We will help make this city safe and beautiful at a fraction of the cost,” said Secretary Sean Duffy.
Elsewhere, Trump announced he would chair a high-level White House meeting on Gaza, with former UK PM Tony Blair and Jared Kushner expected to participate. The meeting aims to outline a “comprehensive” post-war aid plan, amid growing criticism of stalled humanitarian efforts.
As the president pushes forward on multiple fronts, legal battles and political pushback loom large, further complicating his already embattled second term.