President Donald Trump is poised to sign two executive orders that seek to increase federal involvement in crime policies. These orders will focus on two primary areas: eliminating cashless bail policies and taking action against flag desecration. A White House official confirmed the forthcoming order threatening to withhold federal funding from cities and states that have adopted cashless bail policies. Trump has previously criticized cashless bail, mentioning plans to federalize the DC police department and deploy the National Guard. Additionally, an executive order is expected to direct the Attorney General to address flag desecration, potentially identifying violations of state and local laws. This action comes despite a 1989 Supreme Court ruling protecting flag burning under the First Amendment. Trump has recently intensified threats to intervene in crime outside of the nation’s capital, suggesting Chicago as his next target. However, in contrast to Washington, where the federal government has greater authority, Trump cannot directly control another city’s police department. State and local officials have also voiced opposition to potential National Guard deployments.
