In a dramatic turn of events, former President Donald Trump is poised to sign two executive orders today aimed at abolishing cashless bail across the nation, declaring jurisdictions that implement such policies a “disaster.” This bold move follows Trump’s assertion that the elimination of cash bail has fueled crime spikes in major cities, particularly New York and Chicago, where violent offenders are released back onto the streets almost immediately after arrest.
Speaking at a rally earlier today, Trump emphasized the urgent need for reform, stating, “Somebody murders somebody and is out on no cash bail before the day is out. We’re going to end that.” His remarks come on the heels of alarming crime statistics, with Washington, D.C. recently experiencing a brief respite from homicides, attributed to increased federal law enforcement presence.
Judge Jeanine Pirro, U.S. Attorney for D.C., echoed Trump’s sentiments, citing a surge in violent crime linked to cashless bail policies. “The public is not safe,” she warned, highlighting the repeated offenses by those released without bail. As Trump prepares to take decisive action, the ramifications of these orders could ripple through cities grappling with rising crime rates and public safety concerns.
Critics, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, have already voiced their opposition, framing Trump’s intervention as an overreach. “The people of this city are accustomed to rising up against tyranny,” Johnson stated, pushing back against federal involvement.
As the nation watches closely, Trump’s executive orders could reshape the landscape of criminal justice and public safety, igniting fierce debates over accountability, rehabilitation, and the role of federal authority in local governance. With the signature imminent, all eyes are on the unfolding drama that could redefine the future of bail reform in America.