President’s Core Goals: A Simple Overview by Mother Jones

Updated September 6, 2025 at 10:15 AM EDT

Federal Intervention in Baltimore Sparks Debate as City Reports Crime Drop

Washington D.C. – A planned escalation of federal involvement in local law enforcement, spearheaded by President Trump, is facing scrutiny as baltimore officials defend recent gains in public safety. The move, following the deployment of National Guard troops in the nation’s capital, promises further federal presence in cities deemed to be struggling with crime-with Baltimore specifically mentioned as a target.

Controversial Deployment and Legal Challenges

Despite a recent federal court ruling that found President Trump overstepped his authority when dispatching the National Guard to Los Angeles earlier this year, the governance maintains its right to intervene. During a press conference on Tuesday, President Trump asserted that his administration has “a right to do it because I have an obligation to do it to protect this country… and that includes Baltimore.” This assertion comes amidst growing tension between the federal government and local authorities over the appropriate scope of federal intervention in city policing.

Baltimore’s Progress and Mayor Scott’s Response

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has vocally opposed the planned federal intervention, highlighting the city’s recent strides in reducing crime. In an exclusive interview, mayor Scott revealed that Baltimore is experiencing “the fewest amount of homicides through this date on record.That’s a 50-year low, and that’s still not good enough for me.” This claim is supported by data from the Washington Post, which reported a nearly 23 percent decrease in homicide rates and a nearly 20 percent drop in non-fatal shootings in Baltimore during the first half of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024.

Mayor Scott further criticized federal actions that he believes undermine the city’s progress, specifically citing cuts to crucial community programs. “Community violence intervention, victim services, all of those kinds of services that have been cut,” he explained. “What we want from the president is very simple-reinstating all the cuts that they’ve made to federal grants to programs that have been working to reduce violence.”

Understanding the Decline in Baltimore Crime

The reduction in crime within Baltimore mirrors a national trend of cities investing in community-based crime prevention strategies. According to a report by the National Institute of Justice released in March 2025, cities that prioritize funding for violence interruption programs and social services have demonstrated significant reductions in gun violence. These programs frequently enough focus on addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of prospect, and trauma.

Crime Category	Change (First Half 2025 vs. First Half 2024)
Homicides	-23%
Non-Fatal Shootings	-20%

Did You Know? Baltimore’s success is closely linked to its Group Violence Reduction Strategy, a data-driven approach that focuses on addressing violence committed by a small number of individuals.

Pro Tip: Local control over policing strategies,coupled with targeted social investments,appears to be a key factor in recent crime reductions.

The Broader Debate on Federal Overreach

This situation in Baltimore is part of a larger national conversation about the balance between federal authority and local autonomy. Legal scholars are divided on the extent to which the federal government can intervene in local law enforcement matters. Concerns have been raised about potential constitutional violations and the erosion of trust between communities and law enforcement.

Will increased federal intervention truly enhance public safety, or will it exacerbate tensions and undermine local efforts? What role should the federal government play in addressing crime in cities across the United States?

The Evolving Landscape of Crime and Federalism

the relationship between the federal government and local law enforcement has been a recurring theme throughout American history. Traditionally, policing has been considered a state and local responsibility. However, in recent decades, the federal government has become increasingly involved in areas such as counterterrorism, drug enforcement, and civil rights investigations. The current debate over federal intervention in cities like Baltimore highlights the ongoing tension between these competing interests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Intervention and Crime in Baltimore

1. What is the primary reason for President Trump’s proposed intervention in Baltimore? President Trump cites a need to protect the country and address crime, despite recent positive trends in the city.
2. What is Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott’s position on federal intervention? Mayor Scott opposes federal intervention,believing that Baltimore has made significant progress independently and needs federal support for existing programs.
3. What specific data supports the claim that crime is down in Baltimore? The Washington Post reported a 23% decrease in homicides and a 20% decrease in non-fatal shootings in the first half of 2025.
4. What types of programs is Mayor Scott requesting federal funding for? He is advocating for the reinstatement of funding for community violence intervention and victim services programs.
5. Is federal intervention in local law enforcement a new phenomenon? While the extent varies, the federal government has been involved in local law enforcement for decades, especially in areas like drug enforcement and civil rights.
6. What are the legal challenges to federal intervention in cities like Los Angeles and Baltimore? The legality of deploying national Guard troops without local consent has been challenged in court, with a recent ruling finding President Trump overstepped his authority in Los Angeles.
7. What role do community-based programs play in reducing crime? Studies, including a report by the National Institute of Justice, suggest that investing in community violence intervention and social services can substantially reduce gun violence.

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How might the proposed $15 federal minimum wage impact small businesses, according to the reporting?

Economic Agenda: Building a More Equitable Economy

mother Jones’ reporting consistently highlights the President’s focus on economic fairness. Key components of this agenda include:

Raising the Minimum Wage: A central tenet is increasing the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour. This aims to reduce income inequality and provide a living wage for millions of American workers. The debate surrounding the minimum wage often centers on its potential impact on small businesses and employment rates.

Investing in Infrastructure: Meaningful investment in infrastructure projects – roads, bridges, public transportation, broadband internet – is a priority. This isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about creating jobs and boosting economic growth. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed into law in 2021, is a prime example of this commitment.

Tax Fairness: The administration advocates for tax policies that ensure the wealthiest Americans and large corporations pay their fair share. Proposals include increasing the corporate tax rate and raising taxes on high-income earners. This revenue would be used to fund social programs and reduce the national debt.

Strengthening Unions: Supporting the right to organize and collectively bargain is seen as crucial for empowering workers and improving wages and working conditions. Recent initiatives include efforts to protect union organizing drives and promote worker protections.

Climate Change & Environmental Policy: A Green New deal Approach

Mother Jones has been a long-time advocate for aggressive climate action, and the President’s policies reflect this urgency.

Rejoining the Paris Agreement: One of the first actions taken was rejoining the Paris Agreement on climate change, signaling a renewed commitment to international cooperation.

Investing in Renewable Energy: A major push is underway to transition to a clean energy economy through investments in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal. Tax credits and incentives are being offered to encourage the growth and adoption of these technologies.

Environmental Justice: Recognizing that climate change disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, the administration has prioritized environmental justice initiatives. This includes cleaning up polluted sites and ensuring that all communities have access to clean air and water.

Reducing Emissions: Setting ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is central to the climate agenda. This involves regulations on power plants, vehicles, and other sources of pollution.

Healthcare Access & Affordability: Expanding the Affordable Care Act

expanding access to affordable healthcare remains a key priority.

Strengthening the Affordable Care Act (ACA): Efforts are focused on strengthening the ACA by increasing subsidies and expanding enrollment. This aims to lower healthcare costs and ensure that more Americans have health insurance coverage.

Lowering Prescription Drug Costs: Addressing the high cost of prescription drugs is a major focus. Proposals include allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices and capping out-of-pocket costs for seniors.

Expanding Medicaid: Expanding Medicaid eligibility to cover more low-income individuals is another key component of the healthcare agenda.

addressing Healthcare Disparities: recognizing that healthcare disparities exist, initiatives are underway to improve access to care for underserved communities.

Social Justice & Civil Rights: Addressing Systemic Inequality

The President’s agenda includes a strong emphasis on social justice and civil rights.

Voting Rights: Protecting and expanding voting rights is a top priority. This includes supporting legislation to combat voter suppression and make it easier for all citizens to participate in elections. The John Lewis Voting rights Advancement Act is a key piece of proposed legislation.

Criminal Justice Reform: addressing systemic racism in the criminal justice system is a major focus. Proposals include reducing mandatory minimum sentences, ending cash bail, and investing in community-based alternatives to incarceration.

Immigration reform: Complete immigration reform is a long-term goal. This includes providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, strengthening border security, and addressing the root causes of migration.

LGBTQ+ Rights: Protecting and expanding LGBTQ+ rights is a priority. This includes supporting the Equality Act, which would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Foreign Policy: Restoring American Leadership

The administration aims to restore American leadership on the world stage.

Rebuilding Alliances: Strengthening relationships with allies is a key priority. This involves working with international partners to address global challenges like climate change,terrorism,and pandemics.

Diplomacy First: Prioritizing diplomacy and engagement over military intervention is a guiding principle.

* Promoting Democracy: Supporting democracy and human