Benny Johnson Rebukes White House Reporters Over Claims D.C. Is Safe, Credits Trump for ‘Making the City Safe’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Conservative commentator and podcast host Benny Johnson made headlines this week after delivering a pointed critique to White House reporters, accusing them of “lying” about the safety of Washington, D.C. during a press briefing. Johnson’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over rising crime rates in the nation’s capital and what many see as conflicting narratives from political leaders and the media.

The Incident During the Briefing

The exchange took place during a White House press event on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, where reporters questioned administration officials about public safety concerns. Johnson, invited to the event as part of an open press day, waited until the Q&A segment before directing his comments toward journalists in the room.

“You sit here and tell the American people that D.C. is safe. That is a lie,” Johnson said firmly, drawing a brief pause in the room. “Walk outside, talk to any resident, and see how they feel. People are scared, businesses are struggling, and crime is real.”

His words reflected a growing frustration among conservatives who accuse mainstream outlets of downplaying violent crime in politically sensitive areas.

A City at the Center of a Crime Debate

Washington, D.C. has been under heightened scrutiny in recent years as crime statistics fluctuated post-pandemic. Data from the Metropolitan Police Department shows that while certain categories like property crime have seen small declines in 2025, violent crimes — including assaults and robberies — remain higher than pre-2020 levels.

Critics argue that political narratives often overshadow ground realities, leading to mixed public perceptions. For many residents, stories of carjackings, robberies, and public disorder remain part of everyday conversations.

Johnson’s Praise for the Trump Era

In a surprising shift during his remarks, Johnson credited former President Donald Trump’s administration for what he called “the safest D.C. has ever been” during his years in office.

“During Trump’s presidency, you could walk through most neighborhoods without fear. Federal law enforcement had resources, and there was zero tolerance for chaos,” Johnson claimed. “Whatever your politics, you can’t deny things were calmer back then.”

While his statement is politically charged, some crime data from 2017–2019 does show a relative decrease in certain violent crimes compared to later years, though experts caution against attributing such changes solely to the White House.

The Broader Political Implications

Johnson’s comments quickly spread across conservative media channels, where they were framed as an example of speaking truth to a politically biased press. Some Republican strategists believe this moment could further highlight public safety as a major issue in the 2026 midterm elections, particularly in urban battlegrounds.

Democrats, meanwhile, have pushed back, pointing to ongoing federal and local efforts to address safety concerns, including increased police presence and community engagement programs. They also note that broader national trends in crime are complex and influenced by multiple social and economic factors.

Public Reaction and Social Media Response

Within hours of the press briefing, Johnson’s clip circulated widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, amassing hundreds of thousands of views. Supporters praised him for challenging “media dishonesty,” while critics accused him of cherry-picking facts to fit a political narrative.

Even some independent journalists weighed in, suggesting that the truth about D.C.’s safety lies somewhere between both extremes — acknowledging real crime challenges while also noting progress in some areas.

Conclusion: Safety Narrative to Remain a Flashpoint

The sharp exchange underscores how public safety in Washington, D.C. remains not just a local concern but a national political talking point. With both sides presenting competing narratives, the debate over crime, media honesty, and political responsibility is unlikely to fade anytime soon.

For Johnson, his comments solidify his position as a vocal critic of the current administration and a staunch supporter of Donald Trump’s “law and order” legacy.