Washington, D.C., is more than our capital — it is the symbolic heart of America. Families from across the country save for years to bring their children and grandchildren here to see the monuments, museums, and institutions that embody our history and ideals. For many, the Metrorail system is the lifeline that carries them between these sites. But today, that lifeline is too often a source of anxiety.
For seniors and multi-generational families, the stakes are especially high. Grandparents visiting with young children must balance mobility challenges with the constant attention needed to keep their loved ones safe in crowded public spaces. That task becomes far more difficult when crime is rampant and public order is fraying.
In recent years, Washington, D.C., has become one of the most dangerous large cities in the United States. The city’s homicide and vehicle theft rates rank among the worst in the nation, surpassing even some global capitals known for high crime. Violence has claimed the lives of embassy staffers and a congressional intern, and federal workers have been beaten just blocks from the White House.
While the Metro has reported progress in reducing crime through stronger patrols and enforcement, progress is not the same as safety. No grandparent should have to weigh the risk of crime when deciding whether to take a grandchild to the Smithsonian.
President Trump has declared a crime emergency in the District of Columbia, citing the local government’s failure to protect citizens, tourists, and federal employees. Under his direction, the Army National Guard has been mobilized to address the epidemic of crime and will remain in place until law and order are restored.
The Guard’s role is essential. This is not about militarizing the Metro — it’s about providing trained, disciplined personnel to assist local law enforcement, deter criminal activity, and ensure that both citizens and visitors can move safely throughout the city. Guard members can support Metro Transit Police at key stations, help with crowd control during peak tourist seasons, and respond rapidly to emergencies.
Their presence sends a clear message: Washington, D.C., is not surrendering its streets or transit system to lawlessness. It reassures visitors that the seat of our federal government takes their safety seriously.
Restoring safety will also require infrastructure improvements and better communication. Well-lit platforms, functioning elevators and escalators, and clear signage are not conveniences; they are necessities for seniors and children. Real-time alerts about service disruptions or crowding should be available to every rider, helping families make informed decisions and avoid dangerous situations.
We must also foster a renewed culture of civility on public transit. Campaigns urging passengers to respect and assist seniors, report harassment, and watch out for children can make a difference. Safety isn’t just about enforcement — it’s about every rider playing a role.
Critics may question the need for these measures, especially deploying the National Guard. But the reality is simple: if we cannot guarantee safety in the heart of our democracy, we erode confidence in the strength of our nation.
Washington should be the envy of the world — not a cautionary tale. Seniors and grandchildren should leave this city with memories of wonder and pride, not fear and regret. That will only happen if we enforce the law, invest in safety, and use every available tool — including the Army National Guard — to restore order.
America’s front porch must be safe for every visitor. It is a matter of national honor, and we have both the authority and the obligation to make it so.
Saulius "Saul" Anuzis is the president of the 60 Plus Association and a Republican Party politician from the U.S. State of Michigan. He was chairman of the Michigan Republican Party from 2005–2009 and was also a candidate for national chairman of the Republican National Committee in 2009 and 2011 as well as a Member of the RNC from 2005-2012.
Editor’s Note: President Donald Trump is returning Washington D.C. to the American people by locking up violent criminals and restoring order.
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