National Guard members are actively removing litter from Washington D.C. streets, a project tied to efforts to improve the city’s appearance under the Trump administration. Viral videos on X depict troops carrying trash bags and cleaning areas in the capital’s core.

The D.C. National Guard confirmed the cleanup is part of broader “beautification and restoration” initiatives. A military task force overseeing operations in the district stated that deployed members will address trash accumulation and undertake multiple projects to revitalize public spaces.

A video shared by the D.C. National Guard showed troops collecting garbage near a waterfront trail, with one soldier describing the mission: “We’re right outside the waterfront… everyone had gloves, trash bags, and instructions to pick up the trash.” Another local resident and National Guard member expressed optimism, saying, “I feel like D.C. really needed this, and I feel like it’s only going to get better.”

Residents and business owners have noted increased safety since federal agents and National Guard troops were deployed. Indu Bhatia, a liquor store owner near the White House, reported that her establishment, previously targeted by frequent robberies, now feels secure. “All my employees, including me, we feel much more safe,” she said.

The initiative coincides with broader efforts to address crime in the city, which has seen fluctuations in violent activity over recent years. While overall violence has declined this year, certain crime rates have risen compared to pre-pandemic levels.