Restaurant attendance takes a dive in DC after Trump's police actions
todayheadline.co -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 8:24:40 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: State Politics & Governors

Restaurant attendance in the nation's capital has taken a dive in the wake of President Trump's Washington, D.C., crackdown on crime, according to data from OpenTable.
Last Monday, Trump announced he was taking federal control of D.C.'s police department and deploying the National Guard in the city in an effort to fight crime.
Beginning that Monday, seated diners at Washington restaurants, according to online reservation numbers, started to drop dramatically in comparison to the prior year, dipping 16 percent. On Wednesday, the amount of seated diners at restaurants with reservations fell 31 percent, slightly recovering to down by 20 percent on Saturday.
WUSA was the first to report on the D.C. OpenTable data.
D.C. residents have expressed their outrage toward the president's recent actions in their city via protests. On Wednesday, federal law enforcement officers were heckled in a relatively busy area in Washington's northwestern quadrant.
Trump's crime crackdown has also reignited calls for D.C. statehood, with the District also not having its own voting member of Congress.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said on Sunday that authorities arrested 68 people overnight in D.C.
"Over 300 arrests in D.C. -- and counting: Just last night, our federal and DC law enforcement partners made 68 arrests and seized 15 illegal firearms," Bondi said in a post on the social platform X. "Homicide suspects, drug traffickers, and more are being charged. I'll continue to stand with you as we make DC safe again!"
Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday dismissed Trump's recent crackdown on the nation's capitol as a "stunt."
"What's happening here in Washington, D.C., is just a stunt. Donald Trump didn't like the fact that the walls were closing in on him, that his own base was questioning why he wouldn't release the Epstein files, why he was protecting very powerful people," Murphy told NBC News's Kristen Welker on "Meet the Press."
Sign Our PetitionThe recent announcement of federal control over Washington, D.C.’s police department by President Trump has sparked significant backlash and raised crucial questions about governance, civil liberties, and the historical context of policing in America. The immediate fallout—a notable decline in restaurant attendance—reflects not only the economic ramifications of such actions but also the broader sentiment among residents regarding their autonomy and safety. The decline of 16 percent in seated diners, escalating to 31 percent by midweek, underscores the unease that Trump's heavy-handed approach has instilled in the local population. This is not merely an economic issue; it is a reflection of the tensions between local governance and federal intervention, the implications of which are felt across the social fabric of the nation.
Historically, the relationship between federal authority and local police practices has been fraught with tension. The imposition of federal control over local law enforcement is reminiscent of past periods when federal intervention escalated racial tensions and distrust in communities, particularly those of color. Notably, the Civil Rights Movement saw federal officials stepping into local jurisdictions to enforce laws that were being systematically ignored. In the contemporary context, Trump's actions can be interpreted through a lens of political opportunism, exploiting crime narratives to galvanize fear and consolidate power. This tactic is not new; throughout U.S. history, crime has often been used as a pretext for expanding state control and justifying aggressive policing measures that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
D.C. residents have expressed their outrage through protests, a hallmark of democratic expression that reflects a broader struggle for self-determination and civil rights. The protests are not just reactions to immediate police actions; they signify a longstanding demand for D.C. statehood and representation. Despite being the nation's capital, D.C. lacks a voting member in Congress, rendering its residents voiceless in the very system that governs them. This lack of representation is a historical injustice that persists today, reminding us of the fundamental democratic principle of "no taxation without representation." The push for statehood is intertwined with the current protests and highlights the necessity of addressing systemic inequities in political power.
Furthermore, Trump's characterization of his crackdown as a means to ensure safety raises critical questions about the definition of safety itself. The arrests reported by Attorney General Pam Bondi, which include individuals labeled as homicide suspects and drug traffickers, illustrate a familiar narrative: the conflation of crime with certain demographics and neighborhoods. Such narratives have historically led to the criminalization of poverty and race, often exacerbating the very issues they purport to solve. The notion of safety must be reexamined; true safety encompasses not just the absence of crime but the presence of economic opportunities, community investment, and social justice. A focus solely on punitive measures ignores the root causes of crime, such as systemic inequality and lack of access to resources.
Senator Chris Murphy's dismissal of Trump's actions as a "stunt" resonates with the skepticism many Americans have toward this type of federal intervention, which often prioritizes political theater over genuine solutions. This skepticism should be a rallying point for those advocating for comprehensive criminal justice reform. The narrative surrounding crime and policing must shift towards community-oriented approaches that prioritize rehabilitation, mental health support, and economic empowerment. The ongoing social struggles for justice and equity in policing must not only challenge the immediate actions of leaders like Trump but also work towards dismantling the underlying systems that perpetuate inequality and fear.
In sum, the recent developments in Washington, D.C., serve as a microcosm of larger societal issues—ranging from the overreach of federal power to the persistent call for equity and representation in governance. As residents and advocates continue to voice their concerns, it is essential to recognize these actions as part of a larger historical and social struggle. Engaging in meaningful dialogue about the implications of policing, representation, and community safety can empower citizens to reclaim their rights and reshape the narrative surrounding public safety and governance in America.
The recent news of a significant decline in restaurant attendance in Washington, D.C., following President Trump's controversial decision to exert federal control over the city's police department, is emblematic of a broader narrative in American governance. This situation highlights not only the immediate impact of federal overreach on local economies but also the historical context of how such actions can provoke public dissent and calls for accountability. The drop in diners—a staggering 16% on Monday and 31% on Wednesday—serves as an economic indicator of discontent with Trump’s heavy-handed approach to issues of crime and public safety.
Historically, the use of federal forces in local governance has been fraught with tension and resistance. From the tumultuous civil rights era, where federal intervention was often seen as both a protective measure and a means of oppression, to the current landscape where federal oversight is perceived as an infringement on local autonomy, this pattern persists. The District of Columbia, lacking full congressional representation and grappling with its status as a federal district, is particularly vulnerable to such power dynamics. The outrage expressed by D.C. residents, manifesting through protests and public dissent, reveals a community unwilling to accept top-down mandates that do not reflect their local needs or concerns.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for Americans to engage in constructive dialogue about the implications of Trump's actions, particularly around the issue of D.C. statehood. The argument for granting D.C. residents their own voting member of Congress is more urgent than ever. This is not merely a matter of representation; it is about acknowledging the rights of a diverse population that contributes significantly to the nation while being sidelined in critical governance discussions. Advocating for D.C. statehood can serve as a powerful lever to challenge the status quo and push back against federal overreach.
Furthermore, the economic ramifications of Trump's policies highlight the interconnectedness of local businesses and governance. Restaurants, as a microcosm of the broader economy, reflect consumer confidence and community well-being. A drop in attendance, which can lead to job losses and economic instability, emphasizes the need for policies that prioritize community safety through collaboration rather than coercion. Americans can support local businesses by patronizing them, advocating for community-based safety initiatives, and participating in local governance to ensure that public policies are shaped by the needs of the community rather than dictated by federal mandates.
Finally, it is vital to challenge the narrative that frames such federal interventions as necessary for public safety. As noted by Senator Chris Murphy, the actions taken by Trump can be dismissed as mere political theatrics, reflecting a lack of genuine concern for the issues at hand. By focusing on sustainable solutions—such as community policing, mental health resources, and economic investment in underserved areas—Americans can advocate for a vision of safety that prioritizes the welfare of communities over the expansion of federal power. Engaging in conversations that highlight these alternatives can serve as a constructive counterpoint to right-wing narratives that often employ fear to justify authoritarian measures. In doing so, we can work toward a more equitable approach to governance that respects both the autonomy of local communities and their right to safety and representation.
The recent news regarding the drop in restaurant attendance in Washington, D.C. following President Trump's police actions highlights a complex interplay of community response, economic impact, and broader calls for systemic change. Here’s a detailed list of actionable steps individuals can take in response to this situation:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Support Local Businesses**: - Make a conscious effort to dine at local restaurants that are struggling due to decreased attendance. This not only helps sustain these businesses but also keeps the community vibrant.
2. **Engage in Advocacy for D.C. Statehood**: - The situation underscores the need for D.C. residents to have representation and a voice in Congress. Advocating for D.C. statehood can help address long-standing inequities in political representation.
3. **Raise Awareness**: - Utilize social media platforms to share information about the impact of federal actions on local businesses and the community. Create posts that highlight the importance of supporting local establishments during this time.
4. **Participate in Local Protests**: - Join protests or community meetings that discuss the implications of federal intervention in local matters, such as policing and crime control.
5. **Engage with Elected Officials**: - Write to or call your elected representatives to express your opinions on federal actions in D.C. and the need for statehood. Use this opportunity to advocate for policies that support local businesses and community safety.
### Exact Actions to Take
#### 1. **Support Local Restaurants**: - **Example**: Organize or participate in community dining events that promote local restaurants. You can gather friends and family for a “Dine Out for D.C.” event each week.
#### 2. **Advocate for D.C. Statehood**: - **Petition**: Sign or create a petition supporting D.C. statehood on platforms like Change.org. - **Example Petition**: Search for petitions like "Support D.C. Statehood" or create your own if one is not available.
#### 3. **Write to Elected Officials**: - **Who to Contact**: 1. **Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT)** Email: Murphy_website@murphy.senate.gov Mailing Address: 136 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 2. **Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC)** Email: contact@nolongerforgotten.org Mailing Address: 2136 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515 - **What to Say**: - Express your concerns about the federal control of D.C.’s police department and its impact on local businesses and community safety. Emphasize the importance of D.C. statehood and political representation. Here’s a template: ``` Dear [Official’s Name], I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent federal actions taken in Washington, D.C., including the crackdown on crime and police control. These measures have had a direct negative impact on local businesses, particularly restaurants, and have raised significant concerns about community safety and representation. It is crucial that D.C. residents have a voice in Congress, and I urge you to support the movement for D.C. statehood. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
#### 4. **Engage in Digital Activism**: - Use social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook) to raise awareness of the situation. Share articles, graphics, or personal stories about the impact of federal actions.
#### 5. **Attend Community Meetings**: - Look for local events, town halls, or forums discussing the implications of federal interventions in D.C. and the statehood movement. Participation can lead to collective action and solutions.
By taking these steps, individuals can actively contribute to the conversation surrounding D.C. governance, support local businesses during challenging times, and advocate for meaningful change in their community.