D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Attorney General Brian Schwalb are firmly opposing a recent order from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi that seeks to limit the authority of the local police chief. They describe the order as unlawful and outside the bounds of federal authority.

In a letter released on Thursday, Schwalb stated, "It is my opinion that the Bondi Order is unlawful, and that you are not legally obligated to follow it." He addressed the letter to Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith, emphasizing that only she has the authority to exercise the powers and duties of the Chief of Police.

Schwalb further explained that the Home Rule Act allows the president to direct the D.C. mayor to provide police services during special federal emergencies. However, he noted that it does not grant the president or any designee the power to remove or replace the police chief, alter the police department's chain of command, or set local enforcement priorities.

He referred to Bondi's actions as "ultra vires," meaning beyond legal authority. Schwalb affirmed Smith's position, stating, "Having been duly appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Council, you are the lawfully appointed Chief of Police of the District of Columbia. Therefore, members of MPD must continue to follow your orders and not the orders of any official not appointed by the Mayor."

Mayor Bowser supported Schwalb's stance, reinforcing the message that the local police chief's authority should remain intact.