Washington, D.C
Americans across country protest Trump, Musk
Protesters attend a “Hands Off” rally to demonstrate against President Donald Trump on the National Mall, April 5, 2025 in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators gather on the National Mall for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators gather outside the offices of USAID (which has been targeted by President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk) during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protests, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Thousands of protesters gather for the “Hands Off!” rally around the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Protesters gather on the National Mall for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators gather on the National Mall for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators gather on the National Mall for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Protesters gather outside the Ronald Reagan Building for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators gather on the National Mall for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., on April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Protesters attend a “Hands Off” rally to demonstrate against President Donald Trump on the National Mall, April 5, 2025 in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators outside the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C., participate in the nationwide “Hands Off!” protests against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators march during a protest near the U.S. Capitol, in Washington, D.C., Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Protesters gather on the National Mall for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
A demonstrator holds a sign featuring an image of Elon Musk during a “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his policies, on the Washington Monument grounds in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Protestors gather during a “Hands Off!” protest against the policies of US President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
An aerial view of demonstrators rallying against President Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk during a “Hands Off!” protest on the Washington Monument grounds, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Shoes representing children killed in the Israel-Hamas conflict are arranged by pro-Palestine activists during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators rally against President Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk during a “Hands Off!” protest on the Washington Monument grounds, in Washington, D.C., April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators hold up signs during a “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump at the Washington Monument, in Washington, D.C., Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators attend a rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, April 5, 2025.
New York, New York
Demonstrators march as part of a nationwide “Hands Off!” anti-Trump protest in New York City, April 5, 2025.
New York, New York
People protest in Manhattan during a demonstration that is part of larger “Hands Off!” events organized nationwide against President Donald Trump, in New York City, April 5, 2025.
New York, New York
Demonstrators march during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in New York City, April 5, 2025.
New York, New York
Thousands take to the streets in New York City in a “Hands Off!” demonstration to voice their opposition to the Trump administration, April 5, 2025.
New York, New York
People protest in Manhattan, part of “Hands Off!” events organized nationwide against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Elon Musk, April 5, 2025.
New York, New York
People protest in Manhattan, part of the nationwide “Hands Off!” rallies against President Donald Trump, in New York City, April 5, 2025.
Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University doctoral student from Turkey, was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials as she walked along a street in a Boston suburb on March 25; she was then moved to an ICE detention center in Basile, Louisiana. She is currently fighting deportation.
New York, New York
Thousands take to the streets in New York City in a “Hands Off!” demonstration to voice their opposition to the Trump administration, April 5, 2025.
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Activists protest President Donald Trump during a “Hands Off!” demonstration Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Activists protest President Donald Trump (then just a few miles away at the Trump National Golf Club), during a “Hands Off!” demonstration Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Floriada.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Protesters gather outside the Minnesota State Capitol building during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in St. Paul, Minnesota, April 5, 2025.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Demonstrators gather outside the Minnesota State Capitol during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in St. Paul, Minnesota, April 5, 2025.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Demonstrators gather outside the Minnesota State Capitol during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in St. Paul, April 5, 2025.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Demonstrators gather outside the Minnesota State Capitol during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in St. Paul, April 5, 2025.
Rome, Georgia
Demonstrators hold signs and speak to passing vehicles, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Rome, Georgia.
Atlanta, Georgia
People take part in the nationwide anti-Trump “Hands Off” protest in Atlanta, April 5, 2025.
Boston, Massachusetts
Senator Ed Markey (center), Democrat of Massachusetts, marches with demonstrators during the “Hands Off” rally in Boston, April 5, 2025.
Boston, Massachusetts
Thousands of demonstrators gather on Boston Common during the “Hands Off!” rally in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 5, 2025.
Boston, Massachusetts
Thousands of demonstrators gather on Boston Common during the “Hands Off!” rally in Boston, April 5, 2025.
Boston, Massachusetts
A demonstrator dressed as George Washington marches during the “Hands Off!” rally in Boston, April 5, 2025.
Boston, Massachusetts
Thousands of demonstrators gather on Boston Common during the “Hands Off!” rally in Boston, April 5, 2025.
Boston, Massachusetts
Demonstrators take part in the nationwide “Hands Off!” anti-Trump protests in Boston, April 5, 2025.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Demonstrators hold signs during a “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Asheville, North Carolina
Demonstrators rally against resident Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk during a “Hands Off!” protest, in Asheville, North Carolina, April 5, 2025.
Asheville, North Carolina
Demonstrators rally against President Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk during a “Hands Off!” protest, in Asheville, North Carolina, April 5, 2025.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Demonstrators hold a “Hands Off” protest rally against President Donald Trump, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, April 5, 2025.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Demonstrators hold a “Hands Off” protest rally against President Donald Trump, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, April 5, 2025.
Lansing, Michigan
Demonstrators arrive for the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against US President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, at the Michigan Capitol in Lansing on April 5, 2025.
Lansing, Michigan
People gather for the “Hands Off!” protest against the policies of President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, outside the Michigan Capitol in Lansing, April 5, 2025.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Eight-year-old Teddy Burdick listens to speakers alongside his sister, 11-year-old Addy Burdick, during a “Hands Off!” rally on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “I just need to teach them the difference between right and wrong,” said their father, Dustin Burdick.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Community organizer Emerson Wolfe leads a march down Ottawa Avenue during a “Hands Off!” rally on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Stamford, Connecticut
Paul Kretschmann, 74, holds a sign at a “Hands Off” protest against President Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk, in Stamford, Connecticut, April 5, 2025.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Protesters carry signs in protest of the policies of President Donald Trump and Elon Musk during a “Hands Off!” demonstration, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Miami, Florida
Protesters carry signs and chant slogans against the policies of President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Miami.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
People begin to walk from City Hall to Independence Mall during the “Hands Off!” National Day of Action demonstration, in Philadelphia, April 5, 2025.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Approximately 300 local demonstrators with SOKY Indivisible gather in the rain at Circus Square Park in downtown Bowling Green, Kentucky, Saturday, April 5, 2025, to protest against President Donald Trump and his administration as part of a nationwide “Hands Off!” protest.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Approximately 300 local demonstrators with SOKY Indivisible gather at Circus Square Park in downtown Bowling Green, Kentucky, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, to protest against President Donald Trump and his administration as part of a nationwide “Hands Off!” protest.
Salt Lake City, Utah
People protest at the Utah State Capitol, in a demonstration that is part of the “Hands Off!” events organized nationwide against President Donald Trump, in Salt Lake City, Utah, April 5, 2025.
St. Joseph, Michigan
Barbara Starke (right) joins hundreds of people gathered in downtown St. Joseph, Michigan, Saturday, April 5, 2025, during a “Hands Off!” rally held to protest the Trump administration and recent DOGE cuts.
St. Joseph, Michigan
A Trump supporter drives past demonstrators in downtown St. Joseph, Michigan, Saturday, April 5, 2025, during a “Hands Off” rally held to protest the Trump administration and recent DOGE cuts.
Houston, Texas
Demonstrators march during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Houston, Texas, April 5, 2025.
Houston, Texas
Demonstrators rally during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Houston, Texas, April 5, 2025.
Houston, Texas
Demonstrators rally during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against US President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Houston, Texas, on April 5, 2025.
Huntington Beach, California
Demonstrators rally during the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest against President Donald Trump and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Huntington Beach, California, April 5, 2025.
San Francisco, California
Protesters form a human banner on Ocean Beach during a protest against President Donald Trump, part of the “Hands Off!” rallies held nationwide, in San Francisco, Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Paris, France
Protesters hold placards during a “Hands Off!” rally against President Trump’s administration and his advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in Paris, April 5, 2025.
Berlin, Germany
Protestors gather in front of the U.S. Embassy as they demonstrate against the President Donald Trump and Elon Musk in Berlin, Germany, April 5, 2025.
Lisbon, Portugal
U.S. residents in Lisbon hold placards while gathering in Praça do Comercio during a protest organized by American activists living in Portugal, April 5, 2025.
London, England
Demonstrators rally against President Donald Trump, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and their recent policies, in Trafalgar Square, London, April 5, 2025.
London, England
A demonstrator dressed as a dinosaur rallies against Tesla CEO Elon Musk outside Tesla’s Oxford Street store, April 5, 2025, in London.
London, England
Demonstrators rally against President Donald Trump and his recent policies in Trafalgar Square, London, April 5, 2025.
WASHINGTON (7News) — Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Pamela Smith is facing yet another scathing report accusing her of manipulating crime data in the city.
The 22-page document from the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform comes less than a week after a separate draft report from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and days after Chief Smith turned in her resignation.
The main difference between the Congressional report and the DOJ report is that this new one, released on December 14, contains transcribed interviews directly with commanders from all seven MPD patrol districts.
RELATED | DC Police settles with former employee over claims that crime numbers were manipulated
The testimony reveals how Chief Smith chastised and, in some cases, publicly humiliated staff in crime briefings.
“The Committee’s investigation heard consistent testimony about frustration and exhaustion among MPD commanders and the manifestation of a culture of fear, intimidation, threats, and retaliation by Chief Smith. Often, these manifestations were triggered whenever the Chief was presented with what she considers ‘bad news,’ particularly when that news pertained to any rise in public crime statistics. Chief Smith, according to testimonies, regularly took action against her subordinates who failed to aid in the preservation of her public image,” the report states on page two.
RELATED | Trump announces probe into DC police for inflating crime stats amid safety claims
The committee launched the investigation in August when whistleblowers came forward with concerns about data manipulation.
One line of questioning in the report states:
Question: Over the last few years, has there been any internal pressure to simply bring down crime statistics?
Answer: Yes, I mean extreme… there’s always been pressure to keep crime down, but the focus on statistics… has come in with this current administration or regime, and you know, that has manifested publicly.
7News reached out to Mayor Bowser’s Office for a comment in response to the report. A spokesperson provided the following statement:
The men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department run towards danger every day to reduce homicides, carjackings, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and more. The precipitous decline in crime in our city is attributable to their hard work and dedication and Chief Smith’s leadership.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
I thank Chief Smith for her commitment to the safety of D.C. residents and for holding the Metropolitan Police Department to an exacting standard, and I expect no less from our next Chief of Police.
Washington, D.C
DC police chief accused of manipulating crime data in new House Oversight Committee report – WTOP News
D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith has been accused of manipulating crime data to “maintain the appearance of low crime” in a new report released Sunday by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith has been accused of manipulating crime data to “maintain the appearance of low crime” in a new report released Sunday by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
The interim staff report came from transcribed interviews with the commanders of all seven D.C. patrol districts, as well as one former commander currently placed on suspended leave, according to a news release.
The report alleges Smith “punished and removed officers for reporting accurate crime numbers and fostered a toxic culture.”
D.C. police Chief Pamela Smith recently announced she is stepping down at the end of the month after two years leading the department.
Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office told WTOP they “are reviewing the report.”
Read the full report here.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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© 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.
Washington, D.C
How Maryland is Tackling Traffic Delays and Enhancing Travel to Washington D.C. Through Key Infrastructure Upgrades, Here is All You Need to Know – Travel And Tour World
Published on
December 14, 2025
Traffic delays in D.C. have long been a challenge for both residents and visitors. In Maryland, addressing these issues has become a top priority, with major projects aimed at easing the notorious Beltway congestion. Among the most crucial initiatives are the reconstruction of the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge. These key infrastructure upgrades are essential not only for reducing traffic delays but also for improving access to Washington D.C.’s famous attractions. With millions of tourists visiting the nation’s capital every year, these projects aim to enhance the flow of traffic, ensuring a smoother travel experience for all. By tackling congestion head-on, Maryland is making significant strides in boosting Washington D.C. tourism. The ongoing improvements promise to make visiting the capital more convenient and enjoyable, benefiting both locals and travelers alike.
Maryland’s Focus on Infrastructure Upgrades
One of the most pressing issues currently being tackled by Maryland officials is the ongoing traffic delays in D.C. caused by outdated and overcrowded bridges. The Francis Scott Key Bridge, in particular, has seen its estimated costs balloon as the need for reconstruction becomes more urgent. The Maryland Department of Transportation has faced increasing pressure to ensure the timely and efficient completion of this project, which is expected to be fully funded by taxpayers.
In September 2025, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy raised concerns regarding the proposed budget and timeline for the FSK Bridge replacement. This project, aimed at addressing significant traffic bottlenecks, is crucial to improving the daily commute for both locals and visitors heading into Washington D.C. for business, leisure, or cultural experiences.
Addressing Congestion on the American Legion Memorial Bridge
Another key project under discussion is the American Legion Memorial Bridge, which connects Maryland to Virginia along the I-495 Beltway. This bridge is notorious for heavy congestion, contributing significantly to the broader traffic delays in D.C. In 2025, Washington, D.C. was rated the worst city in the nation for traffic, with an average delay of more than six hours. As part of efforts to alleviate this problem, Secretary Duffy and Maryland Governor Wes Moore are exploring ways to accelerate the reconstruction of the American Legion Memorial Bridge.
A major focus of this initiative is the public’s input on how best to alleviate congestion in the I-495/I-270 corridor. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has recently released a Request for Information (RFI) to gather feedback on potential solutions. The aim is to develop a multi-state plan to address the congestion that affects both Maryland and Virginia, directly benefiting travelers heading into Washington D.C. This effort is seen as vital for improving the overall travel experience in the region, particularly for tourists navigating the Beltway.
Improving Access for Washington D.C. Tourists
Tourism in Washington D.C. is a significant economic driver for the region. Each year, millions of tourists flock to the nation’s capital to visit iconic landmarks such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian museums. However, these visitors often face traffic delays that hinder their ability to enjoy their trip. The ongoing congestion on the I-495 Beltway and critical bridges like the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge directly impact the ease with which tourists can access these sites.
Improving these key transportation routes will not only benefit local commuters but also enhance the tourism experience in Washington D.C. Faster and more efficient access to the city’s major attractions can encourage more visitors, boosting local tourism revenue and supporting the area’s hospitality sector. By addressing Beltway congestion and modernizing key infrastructure, Maryland is taking a proactive approach to ensuring that tourists spend less time stuck in traffic and more time exploring the capital’s many cultural and historical offerings.
The Role of the Capital Beltway Accord
Maryland’s commitment to improving transportation in the region is also evident in its collaboration with Virginia through the “Capital Beltway Accord.” In 2019, Maryland and Virginia announced a bipartisan agreement to build express lanes on the Beltway, designed to ease congestion. Virginia completed the 495 Express Lane Extension in November 2025, a move that aims to improve the flow of traffic between the two states.
The express lanes offer an expedited route for drivers and are expected to have a direct impact on reducing congestion, particularly in areas where traffic delays have historically been the most severe. For tourists traveling to Washington D.C., these lanes represent a potential shortcut that could significantly shorten travel times to key attractions. The implementation of such infrastructure upgrades helps ensure that both residents and tourists benefit from improved access to the region.
Public Input and Community Involvement
Secretary Duffy has emphasized the importance of involving the public in the planning and development of these transportation projects. The release of the Request for Information (RFI) for the American Legion Memorial Bridge reconstruction is a clear indication of Maryland’s commitment to ensuring that local communities, commuters and tourists alike have a say in how congestion is addressed. Public input is vital for shaping the future of transportation in the region, particularly when it comes to making improvements that impact everyday lives and travel experiences.
A Brighter Future for Maryland’s Transportation Network
With ongoing efforts to tackle Beltway congestion, rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge and improve the American Legion Memorial Bridge, Maryland is positioning itself to enhance travel to Washington D.C. for years to come. The state’s focus on modernizing key infrastructure projects is crucial for easing traffic delays and improving the overall experience for both residents and tourists. As these projects progress, they promise to unlock smoother, more efficient travel, benefiting everyone who relies on these critical routes.
Conclusion: Enhancing Travel Through Strategic Infrastructure Investment
Maryland’s commitment to addressing traffic delays in Washington D.C. through key infrastructure upgrades is set to have a significant impact on both local commuters and tourists. The reconstruction of the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge will not only ease Beltway congestion but also improve access to the capital’s major attractions. By ensuring that these vital projects are completed on time and within budget, Maryland is making strides in improving travel for everyone who relies on these roads. With the ongoing public input process and collaboration with neighboring Virginia, the future of travel in the Washington D.C. metro area looks brighter than ever.
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