With Democrats’ historic 2026 midterm victories at the forefront of millions’ minds, many Washington D.C., residents are hoping there will be some relief from President Donald Trump’s attacks, specifically as it comes to maintaining the city’s cultural institutions and landmarks. But City Cast’s Mark Fisher says protecting D.C. may not be an immediate political priority. Residents’ concerns mount as Trump’s proposed arch and monument remain in limbo, and the future of the Kennedy Center remains unknown.
With Democrats taking control of the House and Senate in January 2027, city leaders believe they have a better chance of reversing some of the damage caused by Trump's administration. Locally, residents want to restore the city's budget, protect federal parks and buildings, expand affordable housing, and expand the push for Washington D.C. to become the 51st state in the United States rather than remain a federal district. With minimal time left in charge, Fisher warns that Trump’s defeat may escalate his aggression and speed up his execution of an agenda that was already in motion.
Trump’s obsession with construction, development, and grandiose architectural projects is well documented, despite widespread objection. But Fisher believes those projects could take priority for Trump. Fisher asserts that, despite their newfound congressional power, Democrats have historically been unreliable allies of Washington D.C. residents’ wishes.
Regarding the Kennedy Center ordeal, Fisher points out that Rep. Joyce Beatty is the only House member who has devoted herself to protecting the Kennedy Center amid Trump's efforts to rebrand the institution. Fisher also argues that Democrats might avoid fighting Trump's plans for the East Potomac Park golf course because golf is often aligned with high status they do not wish to be associated with.
The District also faces unusual congressional representation, unlike other states throughout the country, which doesn’t provide it with the same protection. While residents pay federal taxes and are able to serve in the military, they lack voting representation in Congress, leaving the city vulnerable to political decisions made by lawmakers whose priorities do not align with theirs.
Fisher, however, jokes that there could be a few small victories, such as removing Trump’s name from places whose renaming left many people scratching their heads. His personal favorite candidate for a name change is the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace.
Although legal victories may be possible once January arrives, Fisher says residents must unite and develop a clear plan to protect the District and preserve the city they want to see. Fisher says firmly it’s up to D.C. residents to organize and be vocal advocates to save the nation’s capital.
