CNN senior data reporter Harry Enten states that Americans significantly prefer President Donald Trump’s stance on crime compared to that of former President Joe Biden, particularly as concerns about urban violence rise. Enten noted that Trump has maintained a polling lead on this issue, with his first-term crime rating dropping to -13 but improving since then, as reported by The Charlotte Observer.
In August 2025, Trump’s net approval rating on crime reached +1, whereas Biden’s was -26 in 2024, creating a 27-point difference.
“Looking at Biden’s approval on crime in 2024, he was deeply unfavorable at -26 points. This was one of his weakest areas, alongside many others,” Enten remarked.
“In contrast, Trump’s position is considerably stronger, with a 27-point lead over Biden. This indicates that Americans strongly favor Trump’s approach to crime compared to Biden’s, reflecting a more hawkish sentiment on crime than many Democrats acknowledge.”
Enten also pointed out that Americans currently have a more favorable view of Trump on crime than they did just a year ago. While the polling may not fully capture the situation in Washington, D.C., it reflects perceptions shaped by events in cities like Los Angeles earlier this year.
Moreover, commentators have warned Democrats against minimizing crime concerns. MSNBC’s Chris Matthews emphasized, “You can’t insist that violent crime is down when the murder rate is increasing — for most people, the murder rate translates to life and death. Boasting about a rise in the murder rate isn’t viable… Democrats risk finding
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themselves in a position of defending the indefensible.”
The Atlantic highlighted that the capital has a long-standing and severe violence issue that requires intentional intervention for improvement.
Trump has widened a federal anti-crime initiative in Washington, D.C., earning support from law enforcement yet facing criticism from Democratic leaders who question his approach and data interpretation.
Reports indicated 68 arrests made in one night and over 300 since the initiative’s launch in early August. Officials also revealed that 15 illegal firearms were confiscated amid charges including aggravated assault and assault on a police officer. Three homeless encampments were cleared without any arrests.
White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers announced, “In less than ten days, over 300 dangerous criminals have been arrested and removed from the streets of Washington, D.C. President Trump is fulfilling his campaign pledge to improve this city and restore American greatness in our cherished capital.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi remarked, “With over 300 arrests in D.C. — and more to come: Just last night, our federal and D.C. law enforcement partners made 68 arrests and seized 15 illegal firearms. Homicide suspects, drug traffickers, and others are being charged. I will continue to support you in making D.C. safe again!”
After the White House took control of D.C.’s police force and deployed federal agents and National Guard troops, a CNN analysis of government data indicated a slight decrease in reported crime but a notable rise in immigration-related arrests.
For the week beginning August 12 — the first full week under federal management — property crimes decreased by approximately 19 percent compared to the previous week, while violent crime dropped by 17 percent, according to the latest statistics from the Metropolitan Police Department.
The data showed varied trends across crime categories: robberies and car break-ins fell by more than 40 percent, though thefts remained unchanged. Burglary cases increased by 6 percent, and assaults with a dangerous weapon rose by 14 percent. Two homicides were reported during this period, consistent with prior weeks, but none have been recorded since August 13.
