Washington, D.C. Influencer’s Call to Action Faces Backlash
An influencer from Washington, D.C. turned to social media on Tuesday, urging locals to help protect the city’s image. However, the response didn’t quite match the intention, as many replies highlighted ongoing concerns about crime and safety.
Earlier, President Donald Trump called in the National Guard to D.C. and took control of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to “restore law, order, and security.” Meanwhile, an account known for sharing memes and local news, shared a post encouraging residents to share what they love about their city, aiming to counteract what they saw as a “negative story” surrounding D.C.
Just a DC, push back to a negative story about our city. Share why you love our beautiful home and help us show the world a real DC. #ThereAldc
– Washington Issues (@washprobs) August 11, 2025
Rather than a wave of positivity, comments flooded in with personal experiences detailing crime and safety issues. One user, Grayson Key, recounted an encounter on the metro after asking someone to lower their loud music. He was then apparently assaulted.
It was really cool when the guy slammed me into my head on me on the metro after I asked him to stop blowing up music through the phone speaker.
And then there was a time when Bam vomited to me for no reason.
– gs quay (@hemingquay) August 12, 2025
Another user, TV commentator Sarahselip, suggested that what “The Real DC” means for her includes carrying pepper spray, being cautious about when to wear headphones, and even removing her engagement ring while out walking her dog.
As a woman #ThereAldc It means carrying day and night pepper spray.
I haven’t worn headphones since it got dark.
Remove the engagement ring when walking your dog.
– Sarahselip (@sarahselip) August 12, 2025
Many users expressed skepticism toward the notion of loving the city while ignoring its problems, suggesting that acknowledging issues isn’t the same as being negative. They pointed out ongoing crime and other struggles, arguing that a genuine love for a place includes a willingness to confront its difficulties.
It’s a beautiful city, but it’s not negative to admit that crime is out of control
-Alie (@Allie__Voss) August 12, 2025
How can you love your city if you refuse to help her get better?
– Christopher Bernard (@ChrisBarnardl) August 12, 2025
Mainstream media reports, meanwhile, reflect MPD’s claim that crime rates in D.C. have dropped substantially, stating a 35% decrease since 2024. However, FBI data tells a different story. White House press secretary Caroline Leavitt noted that 850 law enforcement officers made multiple arrests, focusing on issues like murder and drug trafficking following Trump’s intervention.
While FBI data suggests a 10% drop in violent crime since 2024, it still registers higher than 2018 statistics. Unlike the FBI, MPD has a more limited definition of violent crime. There are ongoing investigations into allegations of manipulated crime data within the department, raising concerns about the accuracy of the reported declines.
The community remains shaken by violent incidents, including a gang-related shooting that took the life of a 21-year-old Congressional intern. His mother expressed her belief that the recent actions taken are a critical but painful step toward acknowledging her son’s tragic death.
