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Last Sunday in Washington DC, President Donald Trump noticed a homeless tent encampment while driving in his motorcade on his way to a nearby golf club. Upset by the sight, he shared four photos on his Truth Social account, declaring, "The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY." One of the pictures featured Bill Theodie, a 66-year-old man, sitting in a camping chair next to his tent—unbeknownst to him, Trump was capturing his image to use as a political backdrop.
After Trump's announcement on Monday aimed at eradicating homelessness in DC, which included a pledge to clear out homeless encampments, the situation escalated. BBC Verify conducted some investigative reporting, tracking the origin of the photos and confirming the encampment's location not far from the White House.
Upon visiting the site, local officials were already on the scene notifying residents of impending eviction. Bill Theodie recounted having seen Trump's motorcade pass by multiple times and expressed disdain at being depicted in a negative light for political gain.
Trapped in this cycle, Theodie revealed that he's been living in the area for years, working sporadically in construction since losing his full-time job in 2018. This week, he and other residents were hastily instructed to leave as a bulldozer arrived to dismantle their homes.
"This wasn't a negotiation; it was an ultimatum," Theodie lamented, reflecting on the rush imposed by city authorities. Wayne Turnage, the deputy mayor for DC Health and Human Services, commented that while the city has previously managed encampment removals, the process had been accelerated following Trump's announcement.
Data shows that while the number of unsheltered individuals has decreased, many still find themselves without stable housing. The White House's plan to provide shelters and mental health services is coupled with threatens of fines and jail time for non-compliance—drawing criticism from advocates who argue that forcing individuals through coercion is counterproductive.
Recently, Theodie found temporary solace in a motel in Virginia after receiving financial assistance from a supporter, sharing his relief at having a bed and a shower. Yet, he remained uncertain about his long-term options for housing.
Another encampment resident, George Morgan, shared similar struggles. After losing his apartment, he found himself in an encampment just two months prior but faced a similar eviction process. He was currently in a motel with his dog, unsure of how much longer he could afford to stay.
While the residents adapt to their new circumstances, many fear the consequences of the city's rapid homelessness strategy and remain concerned about finding safe, sustainable housing in the future.
Last Sunday in Washington DC, President Donald Trump noticed a homeless tent encampment while driving in his motorcade on his way to a nearby golf club. Upset by the sight, he shared four photos on his Truth Social account, declaring, "The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY." One of the pictures featured Bill Theodie, a 66-year-old man, sitting in a camping chair next to his tent—unbeknownst to him, Trump was capturing his image to use as a political backdrop.
After Trump's announcement on Monday aimed at eradicating homelessness in DC, which included a pledge to clear out homeless encampments, the situation escalated. BBC Verify conducted some investigative reporting, tracking the origin of the photos and confirming the encampment's location not far from the White House.
Upon visiting the site, local officials were already on the scene notifying residents of impending eviction. Bill Theodie recounted having seen Trump's motorcade pass by multiple times and expressed disdain at being depicted in a negative light for political gain.
Trapped in this cycle, Theodie revealed that he's been living in the area for years, working sporadically in construction since losing his full-time job in 2018. This week, he and other residents were hastily instructed to leave as a bulldozer arrived to dismantle their homes.
"This wasn't a negotiation; it was an ultimatum," Theodie lamented, reflecting on the rush imposed by city authorities. Wayne Turnage, the deputy mayor for DC Health and Human Services, commented that while the city has previously managed encampment removals, the process had been accelerated following Trump's announcement.
Data shows that while the number of unsheltered individuals has decreased, many still find themselves without stable housing. The White House's plan to provide shelters and mental health services is coupled with threatens of fines and jail time for non-compliance—drawing criticism from advocates who argue that forcing individuals through coercion is counterproductive.
Recently, Theodie found temporary solace in a motel in Virginia after receiving financial assistance from a supporter, sharing his relief at having a bed and a shower. Yet, he remained uncertain about his long-term options for housing.
Another encampment resident, George Morgan, shared similar struggles. After losing his apartment, he found himself in an encampment just two months prior but faced a similar eviction process. He was currently in a motel with his dog, unsure of how much longer he could afford to stay.
While the residents adapt to their new circumstances, many fear the consequences of the city's rapid homelessness strategy and remain concerned about finding safe, sustainable housing in the future.
