Trump threatens to send troops to Baltimore amid rising crime concerns

On August 21, 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore sent a letter to President Donald Trump expressing his concerns over crime in Baltimore and extending an invitation for a constructive dialogue on public safety. Governor Moore invited Trump to discuss strategies for improving public safety policy in the state. In a response posted on Truth Social, Trump not only insulted Moore but also suggested that if the governor actually needed help, similar to California's Governor Gavin Newsom, he would send troops to Baltimore. Trump further indicated he would reconsider federal funding support meant for Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, which had suffered severe damage due to a cargo ship crash in March 2024. This exchange sparked a public dispute over the state of public safety and crime in Baltimore, with Trump’s comments perceived as political theatrics rather than substantive solutions. Governor Moore countered by noting the progress made in crime reduction since he took office, citing a notable decline in homicide and non-fatal shooting rates. He argued that the president's remarks were merely performative and highlighted the need for genuine cooperation and effective strategies in combating crime. Moore firmly stated that crime issues require a collaborative approach from local, state, and federal officials, and criticized Trump’s use of the National Guard as a disrespectful and unsustainable measure that would not appropriately address the root of the issue. In light of this back-and-forth, the conversation around crime, safety, and Trump's administration’s policies has sparked significant public discourse about effective governance and community safety measures in Baltimore.