Have Democrats Forgotten How to Do Politics?

Washington Democrats have determined that a dysfunctional and wholly dependent geographic entity, which has a reputation for terrorizing its neighbors, deserves to be rewarded with statehood. But enough about Gaza.

Donald Trump’s edict taking “direct federal control” of law enforcement in Washington, D.C., for 30 days, barring congressional approval of a longer mission — a maneuver accompanied by the deployment of the National Guard to the capital city — has had its intended effect on the Democratic Party.

About the Author

Noah Rothman

Noah Rothman is a senior writer at National Review. His third book, Blood and Progress: A Century of Left-Wing Violence, was published by Hachette in May 2026.

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Washington Democrats have determined that a dysfunctional and wholly dependent geographic entity, which has a reputation for terrorizing its neighbors, deserves to be rewarded with statehood. But enough about Gaza.

Donald Trump’s edict taking “direct federal control” of law enforcement in Washington, D.C., for 30 days, barring congressional approval of a longer mission — a maneuver accompanied by the deployment of the National Guard to the capital city — has had its intended effect on the Democratic Party.

About the Author

Noah Rothman

Noah Rothman is a senior writer at National Review. His third book, Blood and Progress: A Century of Left-Wing Violence, was published by Hachette in May 2026.