Precautions in Place: D.C. Businesses Ready for Possible Election Protests

For the third straight presidential election, businesses in downtown Washington, D.C., are boarding up windows, preparing in case peaceful protests take a more chaotic turn. “It’s sad that it’s come to this, where election results are contested so heavily,” said Bob Greenberg, a resident of Maryland.

After 2016 leaders know that election results can lead to protests they remember the death of George Floyd and post-election turmoil in 2020. 

According to local news source in America, Ebony Boger, who works near the White House, expressed frustration, calling the measures “ridiculous,” though she understands why business owners want to protect their properties. “We got an email from building management a couple of weeks ago saying this was coming,” she said.

Boger remembers the damage from the Capitol riot on January 6 and other incidents that spread through parts of downtown D.C. “I see why they’re doing it, given what happened. It’s a precaution that’s almost expected now,” she said.

City officials have reassured the public that D.C. is fully prepared to stay open and handle any situation. Visitors to downtown can expect to see a large law enforcement presence as the city braces for any possible unrest during the election season.