Business Leaders Have Mixed Reviews on National Guard in D.C.

September 10, 2025

The presence of National Guard troops at Union Station and throughout Washington D.C. has created mixed reactions among local business owners. While some merchants like Samarah Lee Banks of Lee's Flowers and Marc Barnes of The Park at 14th welcome the additional security, others report significant business downturns with D.C. Council member Charles Allen noting some businesses have seen sales decline by up to 50%. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb has filed a lawsuit to suspend National Guard activity, arguing it's "unnecessary and unwanted" while the Downtown BID President Gerren Price reported approximately 12,000 fewer people on the streets compared to the same period last year.

Who is affected

Local business owners and operators in Washington D.C., particularly in areas with National Guard presence
Customers and visitors to D.C. businesses who experience checkpoints and security measures
Restaurant patrons who have canceled reservations
Hotel guests and short-term rental customers who have canceled bookings
Business staff who must navigate checkpoints to get to work
D.C. residents who must submit to checkpoints in their own city
Tourists and travelers using Union Station

What action is being taken

The National Guard is currently posted at Union Station and other locations throughout D.C., providing additional security
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb has filed a lawsuit attempting to suspend National Guard activity in the District
The U.S. Army has reportedly extended the National Guard's stay in D.C. until November 30
The D.C. Chamber of Commerce is actively reassuring visitors and residents that the city remains safe and open for business
Local business organizations are encouraging people to continue supporting area restaurants and cultural institutions

Why it matters

The National Guard presence is impacting business activity in the District, with some establishments experiencing up to 50% sales declines compared to last year
The Downtown BID reports approximately 12,000 fewer people on D.C. streets daily compared to the same time last year
The presence of military personnel conducting law enforcement activities raises concerns about federal overreach in local governance
Some business owners report feeling safer and appreciate the reduction in incidents like car break-ins and disruptive behavior
The situation creates tension between public safety concerns and economic impacts on local businesses
The issue highlights broader questions about the appropriate role of military forces in civilian law enforcement

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer