Memphis, TN, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Memphis is engulfed in political controversy as the Trump Administration criticizes District Attorney Steve Mulroy for being a ‘Soros-funded’ DA amid rising crime rates. This comes as federal efforts to combat crime ramp up, with a new task force involving the National Guard. Local leaders are divided on the effectiveness of these strategies, highlighting the city’s escalating public safety concerns. Shelby County Democrats support Mulroy, defending his attempts at judicial reform in the face of Republican criticism.
Memphis is currently at the center of a political storm, as the Trump Administration has publicly criticized Shelby County District Attorney General Steve Mulroy, labeling him a “Soros-funded” district attorney. These accusations come amid escalating federal law enforcement efforts to tackle crime in the city.
In a press statement released in September 2025, President Donald Trump and prominent Republicans targeted Mulroy, coinciding with significant federal law enforcement intervention in Memphis. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi further joined the criticism during a cable television appearance, branding Mulroy a “woke Soros DA.” This rhetoric was echoed by state Senator Brent Taylor, who repeatedly connected Mulroy to George Soros during his testimony before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee.
George Soros, a prominent financier and benefactor to Democratic causes, has become a frequent target for right-wing conspiracy theories, particularly those with anti-Semitic undertones. Taylor contended that Mulroy’s policies have exacerbated crime in Memphis, pointing to controversial proposals such as diversion programs for felony gun offenses and support for parole for specific murderers.
Crime statistics in Memphis were reported as concerning, with a total of 111,000 crimes and 19,000 arrests in a single year, of which 56% resulted in dismissed charges. Taylor asserted that Memphis was experiencing the most significant population decline of any county in the U.S., attributing this to rising crime rates and warning that the middle class could be at risk without decisive action.
In response to the allegations, Mulroy defended his record by highlighting a decrease in crime since he took office, framing the criticism as politically motivated. In a parallel effort to combat crime, the Memphis Safe Task Force was recently established, involving the National Guard and various federal agencies. Operations commenced in late September 2025, resulting in 53 arrests and the seizure of 20 illegal firearms within just a few days.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing aims to enhance safety in Memphis. Conversely, Memphis Mayor Paul Young has voiced skepticism regarding the efficacy of the National Guard’s presence in the city.
As the situation unfolds, Shelby County Democrats have rallied behind Mulroy, denouncing Republican calls for his removal as political maneuvers intended to shift blame for public safety challenges. Criticism directed at Mulroy has particularly focused on his attempts to reform sentencing practices designed to rectify racial disparities among offenders, sparking backlash from various Republican leaders.
The ongoing political discourse surrounding crime in Memphis reveals stark divisions within the community regarding the role of law enforcement and judicial reforms in enhancing public safety. The contrasting views underscore a tension that continues to play out against the backdrop of rising concern about crime rates.
FAQ
What accusations have been made against Memphis DA Steve Mulroy?
The Trump Administration has accused Mulroy of being a “Soros-funded” district attorney, with Republicans criticizing his policies linked to rising crime rates in Memphis.
What is the Memphis Safe Task Force?
The Memphis Safe Task Force is a coalition involving the National Guard and various federal agencies, launched to address crime in the city, with operations beginning in late September 2025.
What crime statistics were reported related to Memphis?
In one year, Memphis reported 111,000 crimes and 19,000 arrests, with 56% of those arrests resulting in dismissed charges.
How has the local government responded to Mulroy’s policies?
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has supported the Memphis Safe Task Force, while Memphis Mayor Paul Young has expressed skepticism about the National Guard’s effectiveness. Additionally, Shelby County Democrats have defended Mulroy against Republican calls for his removal.
Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Accusations against Mulroy | Labelled as a “Soros-funded” DA by Trump Administration and Republicans |
| Crime Statistics | 111,000 crimes and 19,000 arrests in one year, with 56% dismissed |
| Memphis Safe Task Force | Coalition with National Guard and federal agencies, launched in September 2025 |
| Political Support | Governor Bill Lee backs task force; skepticism from Mayor Paul Young |
| Defense of Mulroy | Shelby County Democrats defend against Republican-driven criticism |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Federal Task Force Arrives
- FOX13 Memphis: Senator Taylor Urges Consent Decree
- Washington Examiner: Map of Soros’s Million Dollar Prosecutors
- Wikipedia
- Encyclopedia Britannica
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
