DC tourism launches new marketing ads as National Guard cleans up capital
National Guard troops deployed under President Donald Trump’s federal takeover of the capital have been seen this week picking up trash in various iconic locations in Washington, D.C. Approximately 110 soldiers have been assigned to cleanup duty as part of a White House-directed “Safe and Beautiful Task Force,” according to reports from FOX 5 DC.
The sight of armed troops cleaning up litter in public areas like Lafayette Park, the National Mall, and the Tidal Basin has drawn attention to Washington’s image problem. While Trump ordered around 800 Guard members into the city under a crime emergency plan, only a fraction are actually patrolling with police. The rest are handling logistics or community projects, such as removing trash under the supervision of the National Park Service.
In an effort to counteract negative perceptions of the city, tourism leaders in D.C. are launching a new ad campaign to showcase a different side of the nation’s capital. Destination DC, the city’s official marketing arm, reported a record 27.2 million visitors in 2024, generating billions in revenue and supporting thousands of jobs. The organization is now promoting a campaign called “We the People DC,” which features stories of 20 locals who contribute to the vibrant community of Washington, D.C.
Despite the challenges posed by the current political climate, tourism officials are optimistic about the future. International visitation is expected to decline slightly in 2025, but plans for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 are already underway. Major renovations and new attractions are set to debut, including a revamped National Archives, a new museum near the Lincoln Memorial, and an expanded exhibit hall at the Jefferson Memorial.
President Trump’s promise to make Washington safe, smart, and beautiful has set the stage for a political battle over the city’s future. As the White House remains silent on the issue, the city’s PR campaign and the presence of Guard troops cleaning up litter serve as symbols of competing visions for the nation’s capital.
Jasmine Baehr, a Breaking News Writer for Fox News Digital, covers politics, the military, faith, and culture.
