The Trump administration will seek the death penalty as punishment for homicides in Washington, D.C., President Trump said on Tuesday during the seventh cabinet meeting of the term.

The big picture: The president has asserted direct and sweeping control over Washington, D.C., in response to what he called a "crime epidemic."

Reality check: Violent crime in D.C. has declined in recent years, counter to Trump's claims.

What he's saying: "If somebody kills somebody in the capital, Washington, D.C., we're going to be seeking the death penalty," Trump said. "And that's a very strong preventative." • "I don't know if we're ready for it in this country, but we have no choice," he added.

Catch up quick: Trump this month seized control of D.C.'s police force and deployed the National Guard in

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