WASHINGTON — As President Trump paints a picture of D.C. that is crime-ridden, dirty, and dangerous, tourism leaders in the District said they have to change the narrative to protect the travel industry.

Destination DC said a record 27.2 million people visited the nation’s capital in 2024, spending $11.4 billion, resulting in $2.3 billion in tax revenue and supporting 111,500 jobs. Saying, because of tourism, each D.C. household saves $3,608 in taxes.

The President of Destination DC said the current rhetoric around Washington is bad for business."

"Their biggest concern is, will we be welcome in the United States?” said Ferguson.

He said tourism in D.C. has made it through 9/11, government shutdowns, and COVID-19.

"But never have we been in a space where, as the leader of our count

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