DC Metro ridership soars during Saturday protests

By Valerie Bonk
June 7, 2020 | 10:18 AM

Metro ridership was up significantly on Saturday as massive crowds of demonstrators made their way to protests in D.C. throughout the day.

WMATA said they had about 69,500 riders compared to about 24,000 on the previous Saturday, May 30.

Metro increased the number of trains that were running during the day to accommodate for an increase in riders.

Additionally, Metro opened up the first and last cars on each train to riders to help with social distancing.

Clear bags only, TSA-style screening and what to know ahead of the Freedom 250 Grand Prix

By Valerie Bonk
August 22, 2026 | 3:54 PM

The U.S. Secret Service wants those heading to the Freedom 250 Grand Prix what to expect when they go through the security checkpoints Sunday. Tara McLeese, special agent in charge of the Secret Service Washington Field Office, told WTOP that they've been working for months on the plan to secure the venue for the event as a presidential site. "Our mission is to ensure the safety of every Secret Service protectee while also ensuring a swift screening and access for thousands of ticketed attendees," she said. She said they're expecting President Donald Trump, several members of his family, and several members of the cabinet at the Grand Prix.

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