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Trump's blurry vision of victory in Iran

Trump says we've pretty much won. The trajectory points to a stalemate.

Politics & Policy

One month in, President Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran war" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="f88d1a87-f850-4ded-b30f-4313c80f7852" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s blurry vision of victory in Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran war</a> has fractured into three competing realities:<ol><li>A military campaign that has largely delivered.</li><li>A strategic vision that hasn&#x27;t.</li><li>A political and economic problem getting worse by the day.</li></ol>Why it matters: The Trump administration has declared Operation Epic Fury an overwhelming success. But the trajectory of the war — from shifting goalposts to mounting costs — points to a potential stalemate.

What's at risk if SCOTUS sides with Trump in birthright citizenship case

The Supreme Court's decision could decide who gets to be an American.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Supreme Court" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/05/supreme-court-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order" data-vars-content-id="5edc6c14-110c-486b-9870-5ee7c1537e53" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s at risk if SCOTUS sides with Trump in birthright citizenship case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/05/supreme-court-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order" target="_self">Supreme Court</a> will hear arguments Wednesday over President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="5edc6c14-110c-486b-9870-5ee7c1537e53" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s at risk if SCOTUS sides with Trump in birthright citizenship case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> executive order restricting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="birthright citizenship" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/05/birthright-citizenship-supreme-court-trump-14th" data-vars-content-id="5edc6c14-110c-486b-9870-5ee7c1537e53" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s at risk if SCOTUS sides with Trump in birthright citizenship case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/05/birthright-citizenship-supreme-court-trump-14th" target="_self">birthright citizenship</a> in a case that could decide who gets to be an American.Why it matters: A ruling in Trump&#x27;s favor could reshape America&#x27;s racial makeup and create a caste system that leaves millions without rights.

Trump's mixed messages on Iran perplex his own team

"That's the kiss of death, when you think you can predict him."

World

President Trump isn&#x27;t just befuddling foreign leaders and financial markets with his mixed signals on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="03ca79df-8698-458d-a483-6ce0575933d9" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s mixed messages on Iran perplex his own team" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a>. Advisers who speak regularly with the president tell Axios they&#x27;re just as uncertain.Why it matters: Trump&#x27;s off-the-cuff musings and Truth Social postings can have life-or-death consequences for the war, and massive implications for the market. Then the cycle restarts without any lasting clarity.

The surprise winners of Trump's immigration wars

"The $100,000 H-1B fee sends a clear message," a USCIS spokesperson told Axios.

If you&#x27;re an immigrant worker in the U.S. right now, you&#x27;ve got a better shot landing a visa as a farmer than a tech worker, researcher, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="doctor or nurse" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/24/trump-visa-policy-immigrant-doctors" data-vars-content-id="31834d30-e781-4991-a423-71ed6ddd036a" data-vars-headline="The surprise winners of Trump&#x27;s immigration wars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/24/trump-visa-policy-immigrant-doctors" target="_self">doctor or nurse</a>.Why it matters: The Trump administration&#x27;s crackdown on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="H-1B visas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/04/trump-h1b-visa-immigration-147" data-vars-content-id="31834d30-e781-4991-a423-71ed6ddd036a" data-vars-headline="The surprise winners of Trump&#x27;s immigration wars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/04/trump-h1b-visa-immigration-147" target="_self">H-1B visas</a> is crushing sectors that rely on high-skilled immigrant workers, while seasonal programs for farm workers have gotten a pass.

"The Axios Show": Jamie Dimon defends Iran war as overdue

"They've been killing people around the world for 45-plus years."

Business

JPMorgan Chase chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon told &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Axios Show" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/the-axios-show" data-vars-content-id="2ef7b2a6-fbb9-4cc1-80a5-2b843954fcfa" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Axios Show&quot;: Jamie Dimon defends Iran war as overdue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/the-axios-show" target="_self">The Axios Show</a>&quot; that while the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ongoing Iran war" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="2ef7b2a6-fbb9-4cc1-80a5-2b843954fcfa" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Axios Show&quot;: Jamie Dimon defends Iran war as overdue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">ongoing Iran war</a> involves some &quot;short-term risks&quot; for the economy, the country&#x27;s regime has been a malign actor since its inception.<ul><li>&quot;Having those folks, their [grip] on the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Strait of Hormuz" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/china-pakistan-iran-peace-deal-strait-ceasefire" data-vars-content-id="2ef7b2a6-fbb9-4cc1-80a5-2b843954fcfa" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Axios Show&quot;: Jamie Dimon defends Iran war as overdue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/china-pakistan-iran-peace-deal-strait-ceasefire" target="_self">Strait of Hormuz</a> and funding all these proxy wars — why the Western world put up with these proxy wars for 45 years is kind of beyond me,&quot; Dimon told Axios CEO Jim VandeHei.</li></ul>Why it matters: Those are strikingly hawkish comments from the leader of America&#x27;s largest bank, making him one of the corporate world&#x27;s most prominent defenders of a war that currently appears politically unpopular and economically damaging.

Nat Geo's highly anticipated museum opens in June

The $300 million transformation of Nat Geo's campus has been years in the making — and it's not your typical museum.

News

D.C.&#x27;s most-anticipated new museum finally has an opening date: the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Geographic Museum of Exploration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/10/21/national-geographic-museum-of-exploration-dc" data-vars-content-id="db25e91d-8729-4a9f-a6b9-6f798bde8033" data-vars-headline="Nat Geo&#x27;s highly anticipated museum opens in June" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/10/21/national-geographic-museum-of-exploration-dc" target="_self">National Geographic Museum of Exploration</a> debuts June 26.Why it matters: The $300 million transformation of Nat Geo&#x27;s 140-year-old campus near downtown has been years in the making — and it&#x27;s not your typical museum. Think high-tech, hands-on and built for all ages.

Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump's White House project faces a pivotal week

President Trump <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="told reporters" data-vars-click-url="https://rollcall.com/factbase/trump/transcript/donald-trump-press-gaggle-air-force-one-march-29-2026/" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://rollcall.com/factbase/trump/transcript/donald-trump-press-gaggle-air-force-one-march-29-2026/" target="_blank">told reporters</a> aboard Air Force One on Sunday that the military &quot;is building a massive complex&quot; under <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the White House ballroom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/02/9000-pages-public-comments-slam-white-house-ballroom" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/02/9000-pages-public-comments-slam-white-house-ballroom" target="_self">the White House ballroom</a> that&#x27;s under construction — adding fresh intrigue to an already controversial renovation.Why it matters: Major <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="changes to the White House" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/19/white-house-trump-changes-photos" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/19/white-house-trump-changes-photos" target="_self">changes to the White House</a> are rare — but Trump is rapidly reshaping the complex in his second term, often sidestepping traditional approval processes.Driving the news: Trump said the $400 million ballroom &quot;actually becomes a shed for what&#x27;s being built&quot; underneath by the military.<ul><li>Outfitted with bulletproof windows, &quot;drone-proof roofs&quot; and his favored <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Corinthian columns" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/03/15/white-house-columns-ionic-corinthian/" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/03/15/white-house-columns-ionic-corinthian/" target="_blank">Corinthian columns</a>, the ballroom is weeks &quot;ahead of schedule and under budget,&quot; with &quot;not one dime of government money going into the ballroom.&quot;</li><li>A closed porch will have views of the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial and Lincoln Memorial.</li></ul>What he&#x27;s saying: &quot;I&#x27;m so busy that I don&#x27;t have time to do this,&quot; Trump said. &quot;I&#x27;m fighting wars and other things. But this is very important, because this is gonna be with us for a long time … I think it&#x27;ll be the greatest ballroom anywhere in the world.&quot;<figure><img alt="Donald Trump in a dark suit and red tie leans over, holding a large print of a white neoclassical government building with American flags, set against a blue sky." height="1409" id="a8a1fa15-647b-433a-80f5-910fb45d32ca" src="https://images.axios.com/dba4u91VFdoP1iLkqoHraYMCL3A=/2026/03/30/1774895014223.jpeg" width="2000"/><figcaption>The East Wing modernization project faces a final vote — and possible court decision — this week. Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The intrigue: White House officials told reporters that the underground complex is a matter of national security and declined to offer further details.Context: Subterranean White House facilities aren&#x27;t new. The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Presidential Emergency Operations Center" data-vars-click-url="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/a-look-inside-the-us-presidents-top-secret-white-house-bunker" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/a-look-inside-the-us-presidents-top-secret-white-house-bunker" target="_blank">Presidential Emergency Operations Center</a> (PEOC) was created during WWII to protect <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Franklin D. Roosevelt" data-vars-click-url="https://www.whitehousehistory.org/secret-spaces-at-the-white-house" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.whitehousehistory.org/secret-spaces-at-the-white-house" target="_blank">President Franklin D. Roosevelt</a> in case of an attack.<ul><li>It&#x27;s been used during crises like 9/11 and in times of unrest, including the 2020 George Floyd protests, when Trump was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="moved" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-donald-trump-ap-top-news-politics-violence-b3817623ef861818803b5676d43741ea" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-donald-trump-ap-top-news-politics-violence-b3817623ef861818803b5676d43741ea" target="_blank">moved</a> to the bunker.</li><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CNN reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/19/politics/east-wing-secret-bunker-construction-details" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/19/politics/east-wing-secret-bunker-construction-details" target="_blank">CNN reported</a> in January that the existing PEOC had been &quot;dismantled&quot; during Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="East Wing demolition" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/10/21/trump-white-house-east-wing-renovation-backlash" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/10/21/trump-white-house-east-wing-renovation-backlash" target="_self">East Wing demolition</a> and that a new, modernized facility was in the works.</li></ul>More intrigue: Officials have suggested the classified underground work is why White House construction moved ahead without National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) approval.<ul><li>White House official Joshua Fisher told the NCPC that the overall project would boost &quot;mission-critical functionality,&quot; make &quot;necessary security enhancements,&quot; and create &quot;resilient, adaptive infrastructure&quot; for future needs, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CNN" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/19/politics/east-wing-secret-bunker-construction-details" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/19/politics/east-wing-secret-bunker-construction-details" target="_blank">CNN</a>.</li><li>In a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="court filing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/26/us/politics/judge-white-house-ballroom-trump.html" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/26/us/politics/judge-white-house-ballroom-trump.html" target="_blank">court filing</a> to stop the East Wing demolition, officials warned that halting the work would &quot;endanger national security.&quot;</li></ul>Between the lines: In a city where it&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="difficult to build up" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/05/trump-height-act-dc-legalize-skyscrapers" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/05/trump-height-act-dc-legalize-skyscrapers" target="_self">difficult to build up</a>, the Trump administration is going underground. Earlier this month, it sent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a proposal" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ncpc.gov/files/projects/2026/8763_White_House_Visitor_Screening_Facility_Submission_Materials_Apr2026.pdf" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ncpc.gov/files/projects/2026/8763_White_House_Visitor_Screening_Facility_Submission_Materials_Apr2026.pdf" target="_blank">a proposal</a> to the NCPC for a 33,000-square-foot screening facility for White House visitors below Sherman Park.<figure><img alt="After the 9/11 attacks, President George W. Bush met with this National Security Council in the East Wing bunker, which was reportedly dismantled in the East Wing demo. Photo by Eric Draper, Courtesy of the George W. Bush Presidential Library" height="2048" id="4a41f4d2-e8d4-4c18-9775-476bbecc0a48" src="https://images.axios.com/q8FE_boHRGDKkfpyWfvthBHyBos=/2026/03/30/1774895233562.jpeg" width="3072"/><figcaption>After the 9/11 attacks, President George W. Bush met with this National Security Council in the East Wing bunker, which was reportedly dismantled in the East Wing demolition. Photo: Eric Draper, courtesy of the George W. Bush Presidential Library</figcaption></figure>Friction point: The ballroom design got more than 9,000 pages of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="negative public comments" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/02/9000-pages-public-comments-slam-white-house-ballroom" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/02/9000-pages-public-comments-slam-white-house-ballroom" target="_self">negative public comments</a>, but the NCPC, chaired by a top Trump official, is expected to vote to approve the project at its<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Thursday meeting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ncpc.gov/review/agenda/" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ncpc.gov/review/agenda/" target="_blank"> Thursday meeting</a>.<ul><li>Local officials like D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, a member of the NCPC, are still voicing concerns about the addition overwhelming the White House: &quot;I am disturbed about the height,&quot; he told reporters Monday.</li></ul>Meanwhile, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Trust for Historic Preservation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/12/trump-ballroom-white-house-lawsuit" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/12/trump-ballroom-white-house-lawsuit" target="_self">National Trust for Historic Preservation</a> has sued to halt the project, arguing that the president skipped over congressional approval.What&#x27;s next: In addition to the Thursday vote, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, who&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expressed skepticism" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/01/22/trump-ballroom-approval-lawsuit/" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/01/22/trump-ballroom-approval-lawsuit/" target="_blank">expressed skepticism</a> over the project and its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="private donor funding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/trump-white-house-ballroom-ethics-donors" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/trump-white-house-ballroom-ethics-donors" target="_self">private donor funding</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="signaled" data-vars-click-url="https://www.courthousenews.com/federal-judge-likely-to-block-brazen-white-house-ballroom-construction/" data-vars-content-id="aa0d77ad-3581-4749-b5ce-234ba0178e80" data-vars-headline="Ballroom above, bunker below: Trump&#x27;s White House project faces a pivotal week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.courthousenews.com/federal-judge-likely-to-block-brazen-white-house-ballroom-construction/" target="_blank">signaled</a> that a ruling on the National Trust&#x27;s lawsuit will come early this week — potentially halting the ballroom construction that&#x27;s set to start in April.

Long TSA lines abound — but not everywhere in the DMV

What to know before heading into peak spring break travel time.

Uncertainty is the feeling du jour for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="airline travel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/travel-delays-shutdown-security-airfare-prices" data-vars-content-id="256bc906-2025-4f6a-a938-8e78ded5b274" data-vars-headline="Long TSA lines abound — but not everywhere in the DMV" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/travel-delays-shutdown-security-airfare-prices" target="_self">airline travel</a> heading into peak spring break and Easter — as the partial government shutdown continues to strain TSA staffing.Why it matters: If you&#x27;re about to ditch town, you&#x27;re likely on edge about reports of hours-long <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="security lines" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/21/musk-trump-tsa-ice-airports" data-vars-content-id="256bc906-2025-4f6a-a938-8e78ded5b274" data-vars-headline="Long TSA lines abound — but not everywhere in the DMV" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/21/musk-trump-tsa-ice-airports" target="_self">security lines</a>. But so far in the DMV, delays have been hit-or-miss.

Peak cherry blossoms are here — go now

Peak typically lasts a few days, but rain and wind could shorten the show.

Peak bloom <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burst this morning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/bloom-watch.htm" data-vars-content-id="9a235364-98f4-4995-afe8-0e13a769112f" data-vars-headline="Peak cherry blossoms are here — go now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/bloom-watch.htm" target="_blank">burst this morning</a> at the Tidal Basin — which means the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cherry blossom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/20/best-cherry-blossoms-without-crowds-dc-arboretum" data-vars-content-id="9a235364-98f4-4995-afe8-0e13a769112f" data-vars-headline="Peak cherry blossoms are here — go now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/20/best-cherry-blossoms-without-crowds-dc-arboretum" target="_self">cherry blossom</a> clock is ticking.Why it matters: Go soon, and you may catch thousands of cherry trees at their peak before the biggest crowds descend.

Scoop: Actor Jon Bernthal buys $3.75M house in D.C.

"The Punisher" and "His & Hers" star is planting roots around his hometown.

Hollywood hotshot Jon Bernthal recently dropped $3.75 million on a home in Chevy Chase, D.C., real estate sources tell Axios — a sign &quot;The Punisher&quot; is planting roots back home.Why it matters: In a town where senators count as celebrity sightings, &quot;The Bear&quot; and &quot;Walking Dead&quot; star showing up at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wizards games" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/WashWizards/status/2013376385692123593" data-vars-content-id="2295a3de-c2ba-4f2e-9250-797a8bff49f7" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Actor Jon Bernthal buys $3.75M house in D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/WashWizards/status/2013376385692123593" target="_blank">Wizards games</a> and beloved <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="red-sauce joints" data-vars-click-url="https://www.popville.com/2026/01/dcs-own-spotted-jon-bernthal-filomena/" data-vars-content-id="2295a3de-c2ba-4f2e-9250-797a8bff49f7" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Actor Jon Bernthal buys $3.75M house in D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.popville.com/2026/01/dcs-own-spotted-jon-bernthal-filomena/" target="_blank">red-sauce joints</a> qualifies as actual star power.

"Melania" premieres at the Kennedy Center amid backlash

Amazon's $75M "Melania" documentary makes its Kennedy Center debut.

Melania Trump&#x27;s big-budget <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="documentary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/05/melania-trump-amazon-prime-documentary" data-vars-content-id="8b2d07d5-e774-408a-ac9f-704d9ff5c942" data-vars-headline="&quot;Melania&quot; premieres at the Kennedy Center amid backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/05/melania-trump-amazon-prime-documentary" target="_self">documentary</a> premieres at the Kennedy Center on Thursday. But the $75 million film&#x27;s rollout is drawing more attention than the movie itself.Why it matters: The buzz around &quot;Melania&quot; has all the trappings of a Washington drama — elite circles, culture-war backlash and high-stakes questions about money and optics.

Maryland is coming for Philly's cheesesteak crown

Charm City is coming for the City of Brotherly Love's sandwich.

Food and Drink

Philadelphia invented the cheesesteak. But Maryland — especially Baltimore — is making a case for the crown.Why it matters: It&#x27;s National Cheesesteak Day. What better time to challenge the narrative?

A "Situation Room" bar is popping up in downtown D.C

This is the most D.C. thing to happen to a bar.

Polymarket is opening a &quot;Situation Room&quot; pop-up bar near downtown D.C. Friday for a weekend-long run.Why it matters: Forget <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Political Pattie&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/09/13/political-patties-bar-u-street" data-vars-content-id="f9ab0fd2-2e80-4dd5-82f5-5787ca5489e9" data-vars-headline="A &quot;Situation Room&quot; bar is popping up in downtown D.C" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/09/13/political-patties-bar-u-street" target="_self">Political Pattie&#x27;s</a> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bitcoin pub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/13/pubkey-bitcoin-bar-review-trump-penn-quarter" data-vars-content-id="f9ab0fd2-2e80-4dd5-82f5-5787ca5489e9" data-vars-headline="A &quot;Situation Room&quot; bar is popping up in downtown D.C" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/13/pubkey-bitcoin-bar-review-trump-penn-quarter" target="_self">Bitcoin pub</a> — this is the most D.C. thing to happen to a bar.

Massive parking garages loom in Commanders plans

You don't see many parking decks in D.C., and these approach the Height Act limits.

You don&#x27;t see many parking decks in D.C., but the ones at the new Commanders stadium could be up to 110 feet tall.Why it matters: At more than half the height of the stadium itself, the latest designs show the 11-story garages swallowing the skyline.

Pro-Trump social media campaign wants to legalize skyscrapers in D.C.

Politics

There&#x27;s a new anonymous push to overturn the Height Act: A Trump-aligned X account that wants skyscrapers in D.C.Why it matters: For a pro-height group, they keep a low profile.

JD Vance's next-door neighbor on Mass. Ave is selling

Perks of the mansion by the Naval Observatory: Pool, sauna and fed-level safety.

Real Estate

For $10.75 million, you can move next door to the Veep.The big picture: The stucco &quot;Heurich-Parks&quot; house at 3400 Massachusetts Avenue NW is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="on the market" data-vars-click-url="https://3400massachusettsavenw.relahq.com/" data-vars-content-id="8a1f92fe-d81e-4126-b717-80a442de4914" data-vars-headline="JD Vance&#x27;s next-door neighbor on Mass. Ave is selling" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://3400massachusettsavenw.relahq.com/" target="_blank">on the market</a>. It was originally built in 1925 and underwent a compete renovation nine years ago.

Former Key Bridge Marriott site to be developed into housing, hotel, green space

Expect housing, a hotel and public green space.

Development

The developer of the former <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Key Bridge Marriott" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/06/12/key-bridge-marriott-demolition" data-vars-content-id="541de2a8-ee00-4da4-a56f-995d187070e2" data-vars-headline="Former Key Bridge Marriott site to be developed into housing, hotel, green space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/06/12/key-bridge-marriott-demolition" target="_self">Key Bridge Marriott</a> site has released plans to reimagine the area.Why it matters: The future of the prime piece of land — which sits by the Key Bridge in Rosslyn, overlooking the Potomac — has been a local point of chatter since Marriott vacated the building several years ago.

D.C. punts on extending teen curfew zones amid council disagreement

The curfew zones are set to sunset during spring break.

Despite a flurry of &quot;teen takeovers&quot; — rowdy gatherings of high schoolers that have sometimes turned violent — the D.C. Council on Tuesday punted on extending youth curfew zones.Why it matters: The emergency curfew law will sunset while kids are on spring break, which supporters of the law warn could lead to mayhem.

Trump's White House ballroom project halted by judge

The judge said Trump is the "steward," not the "owner" of the White House, and that the project requires Congress' approval.

A federal judge on Tuesday temporarily blocked <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="004ed2d0-e416-4498-a16b-193ad688df0a" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom project halted by judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump&#x27;s</a> sprawling plans to build a massive ballroom where the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="East Wing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/08/white-house-east-wing-expansion-ballroom-design-plans" data-vars-content-id="004ed2d0-e416-4498-a16b-193ad688df0a" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom project halted by judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/08/white-house-east-wing-expansion-ballroom-design-plans" target="_self">East Wing</a> of the White House once stood. Why it matters: U.S. District Judge Richard Leon <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="said" data-vars-click-url="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/27929843-national-trust-for-historic-preservation-in-the-united-states-v-national-park-service-opinion/" data-vars-content-id="004ed2d0-e416-4498-a16b-193ad688df0a" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom project halted by judge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/27929843-national-trust-for-historic-preservation-in-the-united-states-v-national-park-service-opinion/" target="_blank">said</a> Trump is the &quot;steward,&quot; not the &quot;owner&quot; of the White House, and that the project &quot;must stop until Congress authorizes its completion.&quot;

Here are the 2026 James Beard Award finalists for D.C.

The James Beard Foundation has picked finalists for its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards.Why it matters: These contenders made the cut from the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="long list of semifinalists" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/21/james-beard-award-2026-semifinalist-dc-md-va" data-vars-content-id="9519a58d-39bd-41c4-8ba2-d36d9bb23abe" data-vars-headline="Here are the 2026 James Beard Award finalists for D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/21/james-beard-award-2026-semifinalist-dc-md-va" target="_self">long list of semifinalists</a> in the Oscars of the food world.

Tail Up Goat's next act: Rye Bunny brings "fine-casual" to Adams Morgan

Rye Bunny, from the Tail Up Goat team, swaps full service for counter-order.

Move over, fast-casuals. &quot;Fine-casual&quot; is D.C.&#x27;s hottest restaurant trend, and one of the most anticipated openings lands Thursday: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Rye Bunny" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/06/dc-restaurant-bar-trends-2026" data-vars-content-id="ae37fd61-4dff-49aa-aa5a-9950068baaf3" data-vars-headline="Tail Up Goat&#x27;s next act: Rye Bunny brings &quot;fine-casual&quot; to Adams Morgan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/06/dc-restaurant-bar-trends-2026" target="_self">Rye Bunny</a>.Why it matters: Chef Jon Sybert and Jill Tyler are replacing their beloved Adams Morgan spot, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tail Up Goat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/04/24/tail-up-goat-closing-adams-morgan" data-vars-content-id="ae37fd61-4dff-49aa-aa5a-9950068baaf3" data-vars-headline="Tail Up Goat&#x27;s next act: Rye Bunny brings &quot;fine-casual&quot; to Adams Morgan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/04/24/tail-up-goat-closing-adams-morgan" target="_self">Tail Up Goat</a>, with a more laid-back sibling serving cheffy comfort food — still built to wow.

Saudis give National Zoo its biggest gift ever to build leopard habitat

A $51.6M Saudi-funded habitat will bring one of the world's rarest big cats to the National Zoo

Make way, pandas, there&#x27;s a new emissary coming to town: The Saudi royals are bankrolling a $51.6 million habitat for the Arabian Leopard in the largest donation ever to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Zoo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/04/d-c-zoo-welcomes-baby-asian-elephant" data-vars-content-id="8920c195-1ad8-4011-be4e-b55177645f30" data-vars-headline="Saudis give National Zoo its biggest gift ever to build leopard habitat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/04/d-c-zoo-welcomes-baby-asian-elephant" target="_self">National Zoo</a>.Why it matters: Native to the Arabian peninsula, a pair of the sleek, sand-colored mountain cats — only about 120 remain in the wild — will be part of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="15-year Smithsonian effort" data-vars-click-url="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/exhibits/saudi-arabia-arabian-leopard" data-vars-content-id="8920c195-1ad8-4011-be4e-b55177645f30" data-vars-headline="Saudis give National Zoo its biggest gift ever to build leopard habitat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/exhibits/saudi-arabia-arabian-leopard" target="_blank">15-year Smithsonian effort</a> to save them from extinction.

With teen takeovers back, D.C. mulls more curfews

""It's really important as we head into spring break."

Spring is here, and so are teen takeovers.Why it matters: The massive and often disruptive youth gatherings are leading city hall to make another go at extending a controversial curfew.

Poll: Which cherry blossom is the next Stumpy?

Vote for your favorite short king in our poll.

Things to Do

Glorious <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Stumpy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/03/15/stumpy-cut-down-cherry-tree" data-vars-content-id="43042002-44f8-4694-bc49-c87efa948902" data-vars-headline="Poll: Which cherry blossom is the next Stumpy?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/03/15/stumpy-cut-down-cherry-tree" target="_self">Stumpy</a> news: Cuttings from D.C.&#x27;s favorite lil&#x27; tree (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="RIP to our short king" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/03/15/stumpy-cut-down-cherry-tree" data-vars-content-id="43042002-44f8-4694-bc49-c87efa948902" data-vars-headline="Poll: Which cherry blossom is the next Stumpy?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/03/15/stumpy-cut-down-cherry-tree" target="_self">RIP to our short king</a>) bloomed for the first time this spring at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Arboretum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/20/best-cherry-blossoms-without-crowds-dc-arboretum" data-vars-content-id="43042002-44f8-4694-bc49-c87efa948902" data-vars-headline="Poll: Which cherry blossom is the next Stumpy?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/20/best-cherry-blossoms-without-crowds-dc-arboretum" target="_self">National Arboretum</a> — and could make their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="grand Tidal Basin return" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/Interior/status/2037208947203957084" data-vars-content-id="43042002-44f8-4694-bc49-c87efa948902" data-vars-headline="Poll: Which cherry blossom is the next Stumpy?" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/Interior/status/2037208947203957084" target="_blank">grand Tidal Basin return</a> as early as next year.👑Yes, but: It will take years for Stumpy&#x27;s saplings to fill his royal roots, so we must crown a successor in the meantime.

Your D.C. Weekend: Bloomaroo, kite festival and blossom pop-ups

Kite Festival, Bloomaroo, international soccer, pop-ups and more.

Cherry blossoms are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="popping" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/26/dc-cherry-blossoms-peak-bloom-early" data-vars-content-id="f268b81a-2ce9-41f7-97b7-a9b18a03f044" data-vars-headline="Your D.C. Weekend: Bloomaroo, kite festival and blossom pop-ups" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/26/dc-cherry-blossoms-peak-bloom-early" target="_self">popping</a>, kites are flying and pink fireworks are set to light up the Wharf — D.C.&#x27;s biggest blossom weekend has arrived.Why it matters: The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs through April 12, but this is peak spring energy — with big events to match.

A local's guide to Cherry Blossom Festival events in D.C.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Cherry Blossom Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/19/cherry-blossom-things-to-do-this-weekend" data-vars-content-id="23c1b889-ac30-459d-84df-2c6f1cecf4f2" data-vars-headline="A local&#x27;s guide to Cherry Blossom Festival events in D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/19/cherry-blossom-things-to-do-this-weekend" target="_self">National Cherry Blossom Festival</a> kicks off today (through April 12) — and no, it&#x27;s not just for tourists.The big picture: Millions flock to D.C. every year (and drop serious green at hotels and businesses), so it&#x27;s easy to write the official fest off as a visitor thing.

Skip the Tidal Basin: D.C.'s best cherry blossoms are blooming here

This park has a bigger variety, a longer bloom season and space to actually enjoy the splendor.

Hot pink take: The best <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cherry blossoms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/05/cherry-blossom-peak-bloom-date-2026-march-29-april-1" data-vars-content-id="73275fa6-dd3b-4a01-9207-aaa427fc95af" data-vars-headline="Skip the Tidal Basin: D.C.&#x27;s best cherry blossoms are blooming here" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/05/cherry-blossom-peak-bloom-date-2026-march-29-april-1" target="_self">cherry blossoms</a> in D.C. aren&#x27;t at the Tidal Basin.<ul><li>They&#x27;re at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Arboretum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2022/03/19/guide-dc-cherry-blossoms-2022" data-vars-content-id="73275fa6-dd3b-4a01-9207-aaa427fc95af" data-vars-headline="Skip the Tidal Basin: D.C.&#x27;s best cherry blossoms are blooming here" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2022/03/19/guide-dc-cherry-blossoms-2022" target="_self">National Arboretum</a> — where you can actually enjoy them without the crowds.</li></ul>

Weekender: Cherry Blossom Festival opening ceremony and more

Good riddance to the coldest winter in decades, hello blue skies and spring. <ul><li>It&#x27;s time for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cherry Blossom Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/opening-ceremony/" data-vars-content-id="22c3c930-58e7-420e-8c68-df099ee50dfe" data-vars-headline="Weekender: Cherry Blossom Festival opening ceremony and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/opening-ceremony/" target="_blank">Cherry Blossom Festival</a> — and the opening ceremony is this Saturday, celebrating Tokyo&#x27;s 1912 gifting of the trees to D.C.</li></ul>What&#x27;s new: The annual ceremony is moving from the Warner Theatre into DAR Constitution Hall, D.C.&#x27;s largest concert hall.

How to watch DMV teams during March Madness

Sports

March Madness is back, and the DMV is well represented — with 9 men&#x27;s and women&#x27;s NCAA teams facing off.🏀 Here&#x27;s a quick guide to who&#x27;s playing in the coming days and how to watch.

Pepco blame game: Fact-checking mayor's race attacks over pricey bills

AI&#x27;s power thirst and geopolitical upheaval are jacking up electricity prices — so what&#x27;s a mayor&#x27;s race got to do with it? Well, D.C.&#x27;s frontrunners are pointing the finger at one another for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the panic you now feel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/03/dc-utility-bills-spike-winter-costs" data-vars-content-id="1a7f5d47-b198-434b-8618-7612f8574108" data-vars-headline="Pepco blame game: Fact-checking mayor&#x27;s race attacks over pricey bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/03/dc-utility-bills-spike-winter-costs" target="_self">the panic you now feel</a> every time you get a Pepco bill.The big picture: It&#x27;s hard to blame a council member in D.C. for the phenomenon of rising global energy prices — so let me try to separate some fact from fiction.

Casino feud erupts between Tysons and Virginia state lawmakers

A state-backed casino proposal near a Metro stop is triggering backlash from Fairfax officials and neighbors.

Local leaders around Tysons are digging in to fight a casino from being built there — slamming state lawmakers who greenlit a hurried casino bill over the weekend.Why it matters: Boosters see a lucrative Tysons mall-sized mixed use development, but a powerful county official stands in the way, siding with many neighbors who sniff at the thought of slot machines down the street.

D.C. renters could soon host Airbnbs under Bowser bill

The proposal would give renters and homeowners of multiple properties more leverage.

Can D.C. renters list their homes on Airbnb? Mayor Muriel Bowser wants to make it possible.Why it matters: A proposal from Herroner could open up a new side hustle for some city dwellers — and give visitors more places to stay during major tourism moments.

Exclusive: McDuffie vows to ax "predatory" speed cams and red tape, mulls property tax relief

McDuffie touts baby bonds, deregulation and downtown growth. Plus: what he thinks about property taxes.

Mayoral candidate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kenyan McDuffie" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/26/kenyan-mcduffie-attacks-janeese-lewis-george-mayors-race" data-vars-content-id="c68be0b8-398f-424f-b876-931d664e1cfb" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: McDuffie vows to ax &quot;predatory&quot; speed cams and red tape, mulls property tax relief" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/26/kenyan-mcduffie-attacks-janeese-lewis-george-mayors-race" target="_self">Kenyan McDuffie</a> says he&#x27;d cut red tape to build more housing, dismantle &quot;predatory&quot; speed cameras and tell President Trump to &quot;back off&quot; from hometown D.C.Why it matters: McDuffie is pitching himself as the contest&#x27;s moderate Democrat, up against Council member <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Janeese Lewis George" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/23/janeese-lewis-george-mayor-race-election-trump-democratic-socialism" data-vars-content-id="c68be0b8-398f-424f-b876-931d664e1cfb" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: McDuffie vows to ax &quot;predatory&quot; speed cams and red tape, mulls property tax relief" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/23/janeese-lewis-george-mayor-race-election-trump-democratic-socialism" target="_self">Janeese Lewis George</a>, whom he blasted as making &quot;empty promises&quot; in claiming &quot;she wants to run D.C. using a New York City playbook.&quot;

Exclusive: Big money funds attack ads in D.C. mayor's race

Both Kenyan McDuffie and Janeese Lewis George stand to gain from deep-pocketed outside groups.

Deep pockets are entering the mayor&#x27;s race, with a new group deploying attack ads against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Janeese Lewis George" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/23/janeese-lewis-george-mayor-race-election-trump-democratic-socialism" data-vars-content-id="f4a62f78-56bb-4399-a777-ece68a090472" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Big money funds attack ads in D.C. mayor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/02/23/janeese-lewis-george-mayor-race-election-trump-democratic-socialism" target="_self">Janeese Lewis George</a> while labor leaders strategize counterattacks.Why it matters: You can expect to be blitzed with campaign ads over the next three months ahead of the all-important June 16 Democratic primary.

Exclusive: D.C. group plans spendy messaging campaign on ranked-choice voting

The pro-business group says a poll shows over 40% of Washingtonians have no idea it's coming.

Many people don&#x27;t know D.C. is adopting ranked-choice voting this year, leading a deep-pocketed group to spend big on a public awareness campaign.Why it matters: The new way to vote coincides with the most consequential election year in a generation.

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