Donald Trump’s latest attacks on Washington DC are more than just political theater — they’re part of a long history of federal interference aimed at undermining the city’s residents, especially its Black population. In this clip from a full interview between Luke Thomas and W. Kamau Bell, they break down the myths about DC crime, the impact of gentrification, and why the fight for DC statehood is about far more than local politics.

They discuss how housing costs have skyrocketed, pushing longtime residents out, and how Trump’s claims ignore the real challenges facing the city. From historical segregation and civil rights milestones to the cultural roots of DC’s Black identity, the conversation digs deep into what’s really at stake.

They also explore the connection between Trump’s targeting of cities with Black leadership and his broader authoritarian impulses — and why statehood for DC is essential for protecting democracy in the nation’s capital.

The full interview with W. Kamau Bell is available now on his Substack: https://substack.com/@wkamaubell

Learn more, and join in on the conversation on Luke’s Substack: https://lthomas.substack.com/