Some businesses in downtown DC will close if elections turn violent

WASHINGTON (7News) — For the third consecutive presidential election season, businesses in downtown D.C. are preparing for the possibility that peaceful protests could escalate into civil unrest.

“It’s a sad commentary that the loser of the election would object to the process,” Maryland resident Bob Greenberg said.

7News noticed crews went up to two buildings near the White House on Wednesday afternoon.

“I hope there are no riots. Nobody wants to see anyone get hurt or harmed. After what happened last time, I think you have to be prepared for anything, like I said, better safe than sorry,” Stacy Snyder told 7News.

This week, city leaders declared they would not stand for political violence, whether on Jan. 6, Election Day, or Inauguration Day. Therefore, it will be available to law enforcement in the coming weeks. The Mayor’s Office also told 7News that city officials are handling business in downtown D.C.

Business leaders know there is potential for rebellion, from the violence that erupted after the 2016 election, after the killing of George Floyd, and after the 2020 election.

“It’s completely ridiculous that we have to do this,” said Ebony Boger, who works downtown.

While Ebony Boger believes this is a sad commentary on how polarized the country has become heading into Tuesday, she understands the logic behind protecting valuable property. He works less than a block from the White House.

“I got an email from building management at this point last week or maybe two weeks ago and they told us this was going to happen,” Boger said.

Boger was last in Washington during the violence on Jan. 6, when a mob of Trump supporters caused damage to the U.S. Capitol and parts of downtown.

“It’s a pretty prudent measure and I understand why because I was here four years ago and it was crazy. It’s not shocking. I’m used to it. I think they need to do that,” Boger said.

City officials told 7News that D.C. is open for business and fully prepared to handle whatever happens between now and Inauguration Day.

One of the things people will notice if they are downtown is a large law enforcement presence.

7News reached out to management about the closed buildings. 7News was told it was because of the election.