Donald Trump Says 'Maybe' People Like Dictators [View all]

Source: Newsweek

By Dan Gooding and Gabe Whisnant
Politics Reporter

Facing criticism over his hardline actions in Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump pushed back, saying, "A lot of people are saying, 'Maybe we like a dictator.'" "I'm not a dictator. I'm a man with great common sense," he insisted immediately after.

Trump also reiterated his threat to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago, and signed executive orders on cashless bail and the burning of flags. Trump's comments came amid a push by his administration to crack down on crime in the nation's capital, including the use of the National Guard. Critics have warned that the efforts reflect those seen in countries under dictatorships.

Also Monday, Trump signed an executive order directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to create specialized National Guard units in Washington, D.C. and nationwide trained to handle "public order issues." President Trump was speaking to reporters as he signed new executive orders related to crime Monday morning, before taking questions from reporters.

Despite the backlash to his crackdown in D.C., Trump insisted his approach is popular. He compared it to debates over transgender athletes, another divisive issue he harnessed during last year's election. "This is another 'men in women's sports' things," he said. "I think the Democrats better get smart," Trump said. "Politically, I hope they don't, but actually, in terms of love for the country, I hope they do, because it would be good to work together."

Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-dictators-washington-dc-national-guard-chicago-2118785