Aug 11, 2025 Board of Trade

Statement: Board of Trade on President’s Announcement to Deploy National Guard Troops in Washington, DC

“The Greater Washington Board of Trade shares the priority of keeping our communities safe and ensuring that people and businesses can thrive without disruption. Public safety is the foundation of a strong economy and quality of life.

In recent years, the District has made meaningful progress in reducing crime, with violent crime and property crime now at some of the lowest levels in recent memory. These gains are the result of sustained efforts by city leadership, law enforcement, business leaders, community organizations, and residents working together.

We welcome continued federal cooperation and coordination to build on this success. However, the National Guard’s mission is not law enforcement, and the deployment of troops for this purpose is likely unnecessary. We encourage federal leaders to work closely with District officials to support proven, community-based strategies that enhance safety while respecting the rights and trust of all residents.

The Board of Trade remains committed to fostering a safe, resilient, and inclusive Capital Region for all who live, work, and visit here.”

ABOUT THE BOARD OF TRADE

The Greater Washington Board of Trade, founded in 1889, is the region’s premier non-partisan business organization representing industry, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies. The Board of Trade addresses complex and always-evolving business concerns that stretch across the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland and Northern Virginia, with a priority focus on inclusive economic growth, improving the business climate, and enhancing the region’s economic competitiveness.  

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