DC AG describes Bondi’s order as ‘unlawful’
On August 15, 2025, Washington, D.C., Attorney General Brian Schwalb sharply rebuked a federal directive issued by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, calling the move unlawful and unenforceable. The order attempted to name DEA Administrator Terry Cole as DC’s “emergency police commissioner,” effectively usurping authority from MPD Chief Pamela Smith—a move Schwalb deemed “ultra vires” under DC’s Home Rule Act.
Schwalb’s written opinion stressed that Section 740 of the Home Rule Act permits the President to request MPD services for federal purposes—but does not allow the removal or replacement of the chief, alteration of the MPD chain of command, or direction of MPD operations by anyone other than the mayor. In addition, he reaffirmed that Chief Smith remains the legally recognized leader of the department, and MPD members are not obligated to follow orders from Cole.
In response, Schwalb sued President Trump and AG Bondi, seeking to block the federal encroachment. A federal judge has since issued a temporary agreement ensuring that Chief Smith remains in charge of MPD and preventing Cole from assuming the role, while allowing limited federal requests via the mayor’s office only.
This standoff underscores a fierce clash between federal authority and local autonomy. District officials argue that Bondi’s order blurs constitutional boundaries and threatens the self-governance rights of the capital. Meanwhile, federal officials cite an emergency public safety rationale, even as crime rates remain historically low by official statistics.
Key Legal Outcomes
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Order Declared Unlawful – DC Attorney General found Bondi’s directive to override Chief Smith legally deficient and beyond federal power.
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Chain of Command Protected – Chief Pamela Smith retains full authority over MPD, and MPD staff need not comply with Cole’s directives.
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Lawsuit Filed – Schwalb initiated a legal challenge against the Trump administration, arguing federal overreach.
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Court Agreement Reached – A temporary resolution restores MPD’s leadership structure while allowing constrained federal collaboration through the mayor.
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Home Rule Act Enforced – The episode highlights the constitutional limits of presidential and federal control in Washington, D.C.
Outlet & Publication Date
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Fox News – Published August 15, 2025 Fox NewsFOX 5 DC.
