JD Vance claims 35% crime drop in 9 days during Union Station visit
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A crowd of demonstrators gathered outside Union Station in Washington, D.C. as Vice President JD Vance expressed gratitude towards the National Guard and law enforcement on Wednesday.
Vance commended the efforts of law enforcement, citing a 35% decrease in violent crime since President Donald Trump initiated a crackdown. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller also stood alongside Vance, acknowledging the presence of the vocal protesters.
Describing Union Station as a location plagued by vagrancy, drug addiction, and violence, Vance recounted past instances of families being harassed by individuals he referred to as “violent vagrants.”
“While we now face protesters voicing their dissent, I believe it is a trade worth making to ensure the safety and enjoyment of our cities for all individuals,” Vance stated. “This city belongs to you, and you should feel safe to explore and visit.”
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Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visit the National Guard troops at Union Station in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 20, 2025. (Alexander Drago / POOL / AFP)
When questioned about evidence of Washington’s crime issues, Vance pointed to Department of Justice and FBI data, emphasizing the need to address the city’s lawlessness.
“We must listen to the residents of this city and work towards restoring safety and security,” Vance asserted. “The calls for ‘Free D.C.’ must be met with efforts to free the city from criminal activities.”
Miller criticized the protesters, labeling them as “elderly” and “over 90 years old,” while denouncing their opposition to policies aimed at maintaining public safety.
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“We refuse to let radicals jeopardize the safety of our great American city, especially the nation’s capital,” Miller declared, dismissing the protesters as “ignorant White activists.”
Vice President JD Vance eats a Shake Shack hamburger with members of the National Guard at Union Station in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 20, 2025. (AL DRAGO/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
“For too long, a small fraction of the city’s population has instilled fear in the majority,” Miller remarked. “The voices of dissent are disconnected from the city, advocating for criminal elements rather than the well-being of the community.”
The recent crackdown on crime in D.C. led to numerous arrests, including individuals involved in gang activities, theft, and immigration violations. Dozens of homeless encampments were also cleared without confrontation or arrests.
National Guard troops stand at Union Station amid protesters, days after President Trump ordered a crackdown on crime in the city. (Fox News Digital/Emma Woodhead)
The initiative, named “Making D.C. Safe and Beautiful,” was established by President Trump through an executive order in March, with increased enforcement measures implemented in August under emergency powers.
Fox News’ Michael Dorgan contributed to this report
