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National

Scoop: Trump's Board of Peace to unveil $2.45 billion Gaza recovery plan

The plan would require the cooperation of Israel and Hamas.

World

President Trump&#x27;s Board of Peace will unveil a six-month, $2.45 billion recovery plan for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gaza" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/13/kushner-israel-gaza-netanyahu" data-vars-content-id="34cb1a7a-87ae-4926-b3d8-50eea93da42c" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Trump&#x27;s Board of Peace to unveil $2.45 billion Gaza recovery plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/13/kushner-israel-gaza-netanyahu" target="_self">Gaza</a> at a meeting of its members on Wednesday.Why it matters: The 66-project proposal offers one of the most comprehensive roadmaps yet for what the early months of post-war reconstruction and governance in Gaza would look like.

Iran president: We have been "victims of terrorism"

Pezeshkian cited U.S. strikes while rejecting Trump's characterization of Iran.

Politics & Policy

Iranian President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Masoud Pezeshkian" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/trump-iran-peace-deal-iranian-leaders" data-vars-content-id="882ef150-9157-4f51-ac80-44df56e80c78" data-vars-headline="Iran president: We have been &quot;victims of terrorism&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/trump-iran-peace-deal-iranian-leaders" target="_self">Masoud Pezeshkian</a> forcefully rejected 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="882ef150-9157-4f51-ac80-44df56e80c78" data-vars-headline="Iran president: We have been &quot;victims of terrorism&quot;" 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> portrayal of Iran as a source of terrorism at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, insisting instead that Iranians are &quot;victims of terrorism.&quot;Why it matters: Pezeshkian used one of the world&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest diplomatic stages" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/22/unga-iran-us-trump-war" data-vars-content-id="882ef150-9157-4f51-ac80-44df56e80c78" data-vars-headline="Iran president: We have been &quot;victims of terrorism&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/22/unga-iran-us-trump-war" target="_self">biggest diplomatic stages</a> to directly challenge Trump on U.S. soil — as the U.S.-Israel war with Iran rages on.

Exclusive: Thune believes Trump is open on AI guardrails

"I do think that the threats are real," Thune told Axios.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune says he doesn&#x27;t believe President Trump is &quot;really dug in&quot; against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="guardrails for AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/14/ai-john-thune-republicans-donald-trump-congress" data-vars-content-id="aad663bf-ba59-4cee-b9a9-b8061834f121" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Thune believes Trump is open on AI guardrails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/14/ai-john-thune-republicans-donald-trump-congress" target="_self">guardrails for AI</a>, despite Trump&#x27;s public campaign against restricting the technology.Why it matters: Thune told Axios he spoke privately with Trump as the AI issue was getting &quot;pretty hot&quot; a few weeks ago and believes some of Trump&#x27;s strong pushback is against public &quot;paranoia and noise around the subject.&quot;

Trump to Venezuela's Rodriguez: Elections need to happen

Trump emphasized elections' importance as a crucial final step in Venezuela's turn to democracy.

In his first-ever meeting with Venezuela&#x27;s new leader, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="b0def29d-39ba-4246-be86-13c69d0d4930" data-vars-headline="Trump to Venezuela&#x27;s Rodriguez: Elections need to happen" 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 </a>emphasized the need to keep oil flowing, relations warm and that country&#x27;s elections on the horizon, White House sources tell Axios.Why it matters: Trump did not insist on a future election date in his meeting with Venezuela&#x27;s acting president <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Delcy Rodriguez" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/17/delcy-rodriguez-venezuela-trump-un-general-assembly" data-vars-content-id="b0def29d-39ba-4246-be86-13c69d0d4930" data-vars-headline="Trump to Venezuela&#x27;s Rodriguez: Elections need to happen" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/17/delcy-rodriguez-venezuela-trump-un-general-assembly" target="_self">Delcy Rodriguez</a>, but he emphasized their importance as a crucial final step in Venezuela&#x27;s evolution into a full-fledged democracy, the sources said.

Melania on Trump's second term: "He's doing the best that he can"

"He's very focused. He has a lot on his plate."

First lady Melania Trump offered a rare assessment of President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="66f47d90-201f-4030-87d8-053991ca007e" data-vars-headline="Melania on Trump&#x27;s second term: &quot;He&#x27;s doing the best that he can&quot;" 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</a>&#x27;s second term in an interview with &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="FOX &amp; Friends" data-vars-click-url="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6405484057112" data-vars-content-id="66f47d90-201f-4030-87d8-053991ca007e" data-vars-headline="Melania on Trump&#x27;s second term: &quot;He&#x27;s doing the best that he can&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6405484057112" target="_blank">FOX &amp; Friends</a>&quot; Wednesday morning, saying the president is &quot;doing the best that he can.&quot;Why it matters: Her comments come as Trump faces weak <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="approval" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/trump-ai-iran-tariffs-public-opinion" data-vars-content-id="66f47d90-201f-4030-87d8-053991ca007e" data-vars-headline="Melania on Trump&#x27;s second term: &quot;He&#x27;s doing the best that he can&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/trump-ai-iran-tariffs-public-opinion" target="_self">approval</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ratings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/15/trump-dangerous-corrupt-majority-new-poll" data-vars-content-id="66f47d90-201f-4030-87d8-053991ca007e" data-vars-headline="Melania on Trump&#x27;s second term: &quot;He&#x27;s doing the best that he can&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/15/trump-dangerous-corrupt-majority-new-poll" target="_self">ratings</a> and voter dissatisfaction over the Iran war, the economy and other priorities ahead of the midterms.

Kennedy Center fencing goes up amid demolition fears

The barriers went up as Rep. Joyce Beatty sought an emergency court hearing over the building's abrupt closure.

News

Fencing shot up around the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kennedy Center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/15/trump-kennedy-center-close-building" data-vars-content-id="5ddf01c6-fac4-49af-a591-7647496d3a9c" data-vars-headline="Kennedy Center fencing goes up amid demolition fears" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/15/trump-kennedy-center-close-building" target="_self">Kennedy Center</a>&#x27;s main building Wednesday, a day after its Trump-aligned board voted to shutter it for repairs.Why it matters: The shutdown is taking shape as a federal judge is being asked to intervene, again, in the performing arts center board&#x27;s plans.

Star witness in Trayon White bribery trial denies family ties

It could undercut the defense's opening argument.

The government on Wednesday called up its star witness — Allieu Kamara, who as part of an FBI sting handed D.C. Council member <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trayon White" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/14/trayon-white-s-bribery-trial-will-be-d-c-s-biggest-courtroom-drama-in-years" data-vars-content-id="32d57c7f-d3e4-4d48-aca6-cbf4bbd18e7a" data-vars-headline="Star witness in Trayon White bribery trial denies family ties" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/14/trayon-white-s-bribery-trial-will-be-d-c-s-biggest-courtroom-drama-in-years" target="_self">Trayon White</a> cash that prosecutors allege were bribes.<ul><li>And Kamara cleared something up from the beginning. &quot;I&#x27;m not related to him,&quot; Kamara said, after White&#x27;s defense attorney claimed the day before that they were brothers-in-law.</li></ul>Why it matters: The denial undercuts defense attorney Gary Kohlman&#x27;s opening argument: that Kamara can&#x27;t be trusted, not least because he&#x27;s a serial fraudster, but also, who betrays his own brother-in-law?

Want to make friends? Bring a banana

There's a party happening this weekend at Meridian Hill Park that's BYOB — Bring Your Own Banana.

There&#x27;s a party happening this weekend at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Meridian Hill Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/25/national-park-service-moves-up-meridian-hill-park-reopening" data-vars-content-id="76eb02bc-2cdd-420a-926b-348bb7d5bd32" data-vars-headline="Want to make friends? Bring a banana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/25/national-park-service-moves-up-meridian-hill-park-reopening" target="_self">Meridian Hill Park</a> that&#x27;s BYOB — Bring Your Own Banana.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The youths" data-vars-click-url="https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/2026/08/gen-z-party-themes-partiful/688171/" data-vars-content-id="76eb02bc-2cdd-420a-926b-348bb7d5bd32" data-vars-headline="Want to make friends? Bring a banana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/2026/08/gen-z-party-themes-partiful/688171/" target="_blank">The youths</a> are all about a shindig built around an absurdly niche premise, most of them organized via <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Partiful" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/19/meet-partiful-the-gen-z-party-planning-staple-thats-taking-on-apple.html" data-vars-content-id="76eb02bc-2cdd-420a-926b-348bb7d5bd32" data-vars-headline="Want to make friends? Bring a banana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/19/meet-partiful-the-gen-z-party-planning-staple-thats-taking-on-apple.html" target="_blank">Partiful</a>.<ul><li>Think the recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;eat an apple with me&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.today.com/food/trends/washington-dc-man-eat-apple-hundreds-strangers-i-attended-rcna592946" data-vars-content-id="76eb02bc-2cdd-420a-926b-348bb7d5bd32" data-vars-headline="Want to make friends? Bring a banana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.today.com/food/trends/washington-dc-man-eat-apple-hundreds-strangers-i-attended-rcna592946" target="_blank">&quot;eat an apple with me&quot;</a> party that drew hundreds out to Meridian Hill Park.</li><li>Other greatest hits elsewhere include a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;Smoke a Cigarette With Me&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hola.com/us/lifestyle/20251125869326/75-year-old-2000-strangers-new-york-smoke-cigarette-together/" data-vars-content-id="76eb02bc-2cdd-420a-926b-348bb7d5bd32" data-vars-headline="Want to make friends? Bring a banana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hola.com/us/lifestyle/20251125869326/75-year-old-2000-strangers-new-york-smoke-cigarette-together/" target="_blank">&quot;Smoke a Cigarette With Me&quot;</a> party that brought 1,500 people together to rip cigs in New York&#x27;s Washington Square Park, or hundreds gathering to watch a dude in Philly eat a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rotisserie chicken" data-vars-click-url="https://6abc.com/post/philadelphia-chicken-man-alexander-tominsky-eats-40-chickens-in-days-philly/12426311/" data-vars-content-id="76eb02bc-2cdd-420a-926b-348bb7d5bd32" data-vars-headline="Want to make friends? Bring a banana" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://6abc.com/post/philadelphia-chicken-man-alexander-tominsky-eats-40-chickens-in-days-philly/12426311/" target="_blank">rotisserie chicken</a>.</li></ul>

Jayden Daniels is hurt again, and optimism is in short supply

Washington's franchise QB has dislocated the same elbow twice in less than a year.

Sports

Acceptable reactions to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jayden Daniels" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/04/26/jayden-daniels-washington-commanders" data-vars-content-id="1f3f2e25-b6ee-415d-9c83-f4555033ef34" data-vars-headline="Jayden Daniels is hurt again, and optimism is in short supply" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/04/26/jayden-daniels-washington-commanders" target="_self">Jayden Daniels</a> dislocating his left elbow during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Washington Commanders" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/11/nfl-season-preview-daniels-commanders-bounce-back" data-vars-content-id="1f3f2e25-b6ee-415d-9c83-f4555033ef34" data-vars-headline="Jayden Daniels is hurt again, and optimism is in short supply" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/11/nfl-season-preview-daniels-commanders-bounce-back" target="_self">Washington Commanders</a>&#x27; loss Sunday to the Dallas Cowboys:<ul><li>Not again.</li><li>&quot;Oh s***.&quot; — Tom Brady, live on Fox.</li><li>At least the Mystics are in the playoffs …</li></ul>Why it matters: The Commanders are 0-2 and have the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks on deck. But right now, the standings feel secondary.

Nesso Plaza urban mall plans second D.C. location in Tenleytown

Expect a rooftop bar, local businesses, and outdoor space.

Development

The developers behind an &quot;urban mall&quot; coming to H Street Northeast are already planning a second — this time in Tenleytown.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nesso Plaza" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/11/21/nesso-plaza-urban-mall-local-food-retail-h-street-northeast" data-vars-content-id="b198a268-0180-4564-93c6-540f6c0ab46e" data-vars-headline="Nesso Plaza urban mall plans second D.C. location in Tenleytown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/11/21/nesso-plaza-urban-mall-local-food-retail-h-street-northeast" target="_self">Nesso Plaza</a> is trying to solve a problem for D.C.&#x27;s small businesses: finding storefronts that actually fit their needs.

RFK site looms larger as D.C. construction slows

The proposal aims to build out the site with 6,000 housing units.

Sometime in the next few decades, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="RFK Stadium" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/06/30/dc-unveils-sweeping-master-plan-for-commanders-stadium-and-rfk-campus" data-vars-content-id="c8b929cf-d9dc-401e-8029-5e77fa0865e2" data-vars-headline="RFK site looms larger as D.C. construction slows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/06/30/dc-unveils-sweeping-master-plan-for-commanders-stadium-and-rfk-campus" target="_self">RFK Stadium</a> site will look as tall as downtown or Navy Yard.<ul><li>That&#x27;s the goal, at least, after Mayor Muriel Bowser this week proposed designating the 190-acre site for &quot;high-density&quot; commercial and residential development.</li></ul>Why it matters: The city is effectively sketching out a new chunk of D.C. while the construction market <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="is slowing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bisnow.com/news/washington-dc/construction-development/dc-construction-starts-down-for-third-year-in-a-row-133995" data-vars-content-id="c8b929cf-d9dc-401e-8029-5e77fa0865e2" data-vars-headline="RFK site looms larger as D.C. construction slows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bisnow.com/news/washington-dc/construction-development/dc-construction-starts-down-for-third-year-in-a-row-133995" target="_blank">is slowing</a>, making the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="190-acre RFK campus" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/07/29/what-the-new-rfk-stadium-neighborhood-will-look-like" data-vars-content-id="c8b929cf-d9dc-401e-8029-5e77fa0865e2" data-vars-headline="RFK site looms larger as D.C. construction slows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/07/29/what-the-new-rfk-stadium-neighborhood-will-look-like" target="_self">190-acre RFK campus</a> even more consequential.

Scoop: Jeff Zients' D.C. home to list for $19M

The former White House chief of staff has owned the property for over two decades.

Real Estate

Former White House chief of staff <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jeff Zients" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/17/biden-jeff-zients-leadership-style-tips" data-vars-content-id="5d6ec250-71e1-41f3-a57c-a7d5f77981aa" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Jeff Zients&#x27; D.C. home to list for $19M" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/17/biden-jeff-zients-leadership-style-tips" target="_self">Jeff Zients</a>&#x27; D.C. home is expected to soon hit the market for nearly $19 million.The big picture: Zients — a DMV local — held senior roles in the Obama and Biden administrations after a successful business career, including at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Advisory Board Company" data-vars-click-url="https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/blog/author/jeffrey-zients" data-vars-content-id="5d6ec250-71e1-41f3-a57c-a7d5f77981aa" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Jeff Zients&#x27; D.C. home to list for $19M" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/blog/author/jeffrey-zients" target="_blank">The Advisory Board Company</a> and Corporate Executive Board.<ul><li>He was also an investor in the OG <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Call Your Mother" data-vars-click-url="https://washingtonian.com/2020/12/03/call-your-mother-co-owner-is-bidens-new-covid-czar/" data-vars-content-id="5d6ec250-71e1-41f3-a57c-a7d5f77981aa" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Jeff Zients&#x27; D.C. home to list for $19M" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://washingtonian.com/2020/12/03/call-your-mother-co-owner-is-bidens-new-covid-czar/" target="_blank">Call Your Mother</a> location.</li></ul>

Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move

Real estate agents say worries over noise, development and the unknown are causing some to pack up.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center debate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/27/data-center-backlash-pr-strategy" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/27/data-center-backlash-pr-strategy" target="_self">data center debate</a> has hit full force — and Northern Virginia real estate agents say it&#x27;s driving some residents out of the area.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NoVa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/virginia-has-a-data-center-boon-officials-debate-whether-its-time-to-scrap-its-tax-breaks" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/virginia-has-a-data-center-boon-officials-debate-whether-its-time-to-scrap-its-tax-breaks" target="_blank">NoVa</a> spent decades welcoming <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data centers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhL7j3zzrVc" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhL7j3zzrVc" target="_blank">data centers</a>, and it now has the world&#x27;s highest concentration of them.<ul><li>Now, growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public backlash" data-vars-click-url="https://www.notus.org/metro/northern-virginia-data-centers-politics" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.notus.org/metro/northern-virginia-data-centers-politics" target="_blank">public backlash</a> has some local governments rethinking where — and how much — the industry can grow.</li><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fairfax" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/node/857" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/node/857" target="_blank">Fairfax</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Loudoun" data-vars-click-url="https://virginiamercury.com/2026/07/30/loudoun-county-other-virginia-localities-consider-hitting-the-brakes-on-data-center-development" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://virginiamercury.com/2026/07/30/loudoun-county-other-virginia-localities-consider-hitting-the-brakes-on-data-center-development" target="_blank">Loudoun</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Prince William" data-vars-click-url="https://virginiamercury.com/2026/07/09/after-digital-gateway-project-fails-prince-william-supervisors-reject-dulles-cloud-south-data-center-proposal/" data-vars-content-id="664fd833-7b20-4045-8c99-a7a2af063fdb" data-vars-headline="Data center fears are driving some Northern Virginians to move" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://virginiamercury.com/2026/07/09/after-digital-gateway-project-fails-prince-william-supervisors-reject-dulles-cloud-south-data-center-proposal/" target="_blank">Prince William</a> counties have all moved to rein in growth in recent years.</li></ul>

Kennedy Center could close today. This Trump ally has big ideas.

Culture

The Kennedy Center says it&#x27;s crumbling and teetering toward bankruptcy. But a President Trump ally sees something else entirely: a chance to turn it into a glammed-up, luxurious cultural destination.Why it matters: Trump-appointed board members will push during a Tuesday meeting to start a controversial two-year renovation while again trying to put <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s name" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/trump-kennedy-center-name-removed-closure" data-vars-content-id="177768c6-eb0d-43db-9932-d41400db0384" data-vars-headline="Kennedy Center could close today. This Trump ally has big ideas." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/trump-kennedy-center-name-removed-closure" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s name</a> on the building.

Fireworks, sharks, cage fights: It's 12-year-old Boy Summer in D.C.

Fireworks, sharks, cage fighting, and so many planes.

Summer 2026 is almost over — and it wasn&#x27;t Hot Girl Summer or Brat Summer or even <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Rabid Beaver Summer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/08/07/beaver-attack-rabies-cunningham-park" data-vars-content-id="d4315706-3aa8-411d-aa2c-b9729c9af4c1" data-vars-headline="Fireworks, sharks, cage fights: It&#x27;s 12-year-old Boy Summer 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/2026/08/07/beaver-attack-rabies-cunningham-park" target="_self">Rabid Beaver Summer</a>.<ul><li>Nope, we&#x27;re calling it now: This was 12-year-old Boy Summer in D.C.</li></ul>

IndyCar's greatest active driver is an underdog in D.C.

Scott Dixon has won most everything there is to win in IndyCar, but there's never been a D.C. Grand Prix.

Scott Dixon has won most everything there is to win in America&#x27;s open-wheel racing series — but there&#x27;s never been a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="D.C. Grand Prix" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/09/indycar-national-mall-race-course-map-trump" data-vars-content-id="e3ec250f-e8a6-410c-b03a-581b9d724109" data-vars-headline="IndyCar&#x27;s greatest active driver is an underdog 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/2026/03/09/indycar-national-mall-race-course-map-trump" target="_self">D.C. Grand Prix</a>. Why it matters: Already a Motorsports Hall of Famer and, as of last year, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a knight" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/scott-dixon-indycar-knighthood-new-zealand-0bef4246df62437ae0d47bcfa1b9acc3" data-vars-content-id="e3ec250f-e8a6-410c-b03a-581b9d724109" data-vars-headline="IndyCar&#x27;s greatest active driver is an underdog in D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/scott-dixon-indycar-knighthood-new-zealand-0bef4246df62437ae0d47bcfa1b9acc3" target="_blank">a knight</a>, the New Zealander is looking for a new accolade in his No. 9 Honda.<ul><li>&quot;Alongside the Indy 500, this is the one you&#x27;re going to want to win,&quot; Dixon tells Axios.</li></ul>

Inside the Trump admin's patriotic vision for Art in Embassies

A new exhibit brings into public view a State Department program that has showcased American art abroad for more than 60 years.

America at 250

A rare local art exhibition showcasing the State Department&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Art in Embassies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/09/15/jenny-holzer-national-mall-projection-art-in-embassies" data-vars-content-id="7f590d81-9325-4ac7-bec6-3611089f4856" data-vars-headline="Inside the Trump admin&#x27;s patriotic vision for Art in Embassies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/09/15/jenny-holzer-national-mall-projection-art-in-embassies" target="_self">Art in Embassies</a> program is opening in D.C. soon.Why it matters: &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Passport to Patriotism: 250 Years of Diplomacy" data-vars-click-url="https://art.state.gov/freedom-250/" data-vars-content-id="7f590d81-9325-4ac7-bec6-3611089f4856" data-vars-headline="Inside the Trump admin&#x27;s patriotic vision for Art in Embassies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://art.state.gov/freedom-250/" target="_blank">Passport to Patriotism: 250 Years of Diplomacy</a>&quot; offers a window into how the Trump administration is shaping a decades-old cultural diplomacy program around patriotism and America&#x27;s 250th anniversary.

D.C.'s bid to be the capital of women's sports

The Mystics and Spirit might be Washington's only pro teams to reach the playoffs in 2026.

This father of an almost-2-year-old girl wonders if it&#x27;s time to change our TV from Ms. Rachel to Ms. Kiki and Ms. Trin.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mystics" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/08/14/mystics-icon-elena-delle-donne-enters-hall-of-fame" data-vars-content-id="a27d9d62-1138-415a-93a4-d0079477e253" data-vars-headline="D.C.&#x27;s bid to be the capital of women&#x27;s sports" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/08/14/mystics-icon-elena-delle-donne-enters-hall-of-fame" target="_self">Mystics</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Spirit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/07/15/spain-in-d-c" data-vars-content-id="a27d9d62-1138-415a-93a4-d0079477e253" data-vars-headline="D.C.&#x27;s bid to be the capital of women&#x27;s sports" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/07/15/spain-in-d-c" target="_self">Spirit</a> might be Washington&#x27;s only major pro teams to make the playoffs this year.

Exclusive: Waymo's opposition grows with D.C. rally

One of the biggest topics this fall at the D.C. Council: Robotaxis.

Waymo&#x27;s foes are assembling in D.C.Why it matters: Labor unions, civil rights groups and even churches are ramping up pressure on the D.C. Council to reject a bill legalizing robotaxis.

This new D.C. restaurant dishes up salmon poke — for your dog

Bramble & Rye is serving wood-fired fare for humans and a gourmet "Paw-Tio" menu for pups.

Food and Drink

If salmon poke and roasted chicken-and-rice sound tasty, bring <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="your pup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/02/dog-parks-new-upgrades" data-vars-content-id="7e0a6d7a-d9d9-4854-8493-3d322a6161cc" data-vars-headline="This new D.C. restaurant dishes up salmon poke — for your dog" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/02/dog-parks-new-upgrades" target="_self">your pup</a> to Bloomingdale&#x27;s newest restaurant — where the gourmet treatment extends below the table.Why it matters: Newcomer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bramble &amp; Rye" data-vars-click-url="https://brambleryedc.com/" data-vars-content-id="7e0a6d7a-d9d9-4854-8493-3d322a6161cc" data-vars-headline="This new D.C. restaurant dishes up salmon poke — for your dog" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://brambleryedc.com/" target="_blank">Bramble &amp; Rye</a> is catering to humans and dogs alike with wood-fired coastal cooking, brunch and a pup-friendly patio.

With White House renovations, Trump will welcome Xi to Washington

The Chinese president's visit brings a flyover, state dinner and potential traffic disruptions.

President Trump will welcome China President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Xi Jinping" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/whats-at-stake-in-us-china-talks" data-vars-content-id="f9398fa8-3d78-4ccf-96ad-4d75fea2e2d0" data-vars-headline="With White House renovations, Trump will welcome Xi to Washington" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/whats-at-stake-in-us-china-talks" target="_self">Xi Jinping</a> at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday, beginning a three-day summit.Why it matters: Amid talk about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI risks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/whats-at-stake-in-us-china-talks" data-vars-content-id="f9398fa8-3d78-4ccf-96ad-4d75fea2e2d0" data-vars-headline="With White House renovations, Trump will welcome Xi to Washington" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/whats-at-stake-in-us-china-talks" target="_self">AI risks</a> and rare earths, some D.C. think-tankers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expect" data-vars-click-url="https://www.csis.org/analysis/xi-jinpings-return-washington-state-visit-build-stability" data-vars-content-id="f9398fa8-3d78-4ccf-96ad-4d75fea2e2d0" data-vars-headline="With White House renovations, Trump will welcome Xi to Washington" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.csis.org/analysis/xi-jinpings-return-washington-state-visit-build-stability" target="_blank">expect</a> Xi&#x27;s visit to Washington to bring more pomp than diplomatic breakthroughs.<ul><li>Plus: Keep an eye out for downtown road closures (unannounced as of now) and demonstrations (one man tried to scale a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="downtown lamppost" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/SegravesNBC4/status/2102399579107086746" data-vars-content-id="f9398fa8-3d78-4ccf-96ad-4d75fea2e2d0" data-vars-headline="With White House renovations, Trump will welcome Xi to Washington" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/SegravesNBC4/status/2102399579107086746" target="_blank">downtown lamppost</a> already).</li></ul>

Scoop: D.C. United makes labor deal for Audi Field expansion

The club has struck an early agreement with local construction unions, Axios has learned.

To drum up support for its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Audi Field expansion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/02/20/dc-united-audi-field-expansion-stadium-arena" data-vars-content-id="6509eccf-f618-4294-a68f-4809b95a0da9" data-vars-headline="Scoop: D.C. United makes labor deal for Audi Field expansion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/02/20/dc-united-audi-field-expansion-stadium-arena" target="_self">Audi Field expansion</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="D.C. United" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/04/dc-united-intermiami-messi-match-baltimore-expansion" data-vars-content-id="6509eccf-f618-4294-a68f-4809b95a0da9" data-vars-headline="Scoop: D.C. United makes labor deal for Audi Field expansion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/04/dc-united-intermiami-messi-match-baltimore-expansion" target="_self">D.C. United</a> has struck an early agreement with local construction unions, Axios has learned. Why it matters: The project just got labor backing. The harder sell: getting D.C. to pitch in $300 million after recent big-ticket sports investments.

As local economy weakens, D.C. will consider tax increases

A tax on upscale secondary homes is on the table.

D.C. will be considering tax increases very soon, with a pied-à-terre tax being one of the ideas.Why it matters: D.C.&#x27;s economy is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="flashing red" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/maustermuhle/status/2098104437667414355/photo/3" data-vars-content-id="c0302d8f-7063-4025-9b3a-0eed5b7f16c1" data-vars-headline="As local economy weakens, D.C. will consider tax increases" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/maustermuhle/status/2098104437667414355/photo/3" target="_blank">flashing red</a>: 36,000 jobs have been lost since last year, the city&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="5.7% unemployment" data-vars-click-url="https://does.dc.gov/release/district-columbia-unemployment-rate-57-percent-august?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="c0302d8f-7063-4025-9b3a-0eed5b7f16c1" data-vars-headline="As local economy weakens, D.C. will consider tax increases" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://does.dc.gov/release/district-columbia-unemployment-rate-57-percent-august?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">5.7% unemployment</a> is higher than the U.S. average, and home prices are declining.

A devastating frost is reshaping Virginia wine

Fewer grapes, pricier fruit and creative workarounds are reshaping 2026 wines.

It&#x27;s harvest season in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Virginia wine country" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/09/24/new-wineries-near-dc-crimson-lane-capstone-vineyards" data-vars-content-id="d44ebf7f-a17d-4052-acae-d18cf63d0884" data-vars-headline="A devastating frost is reshaping Virginia wine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/09/24/new-wineries-near-dc-crimson-lane-capstone-vineyards" target="_self">Virginia wine country</a>, but visit some vineyards and you may notice a crucial element missing: the grapes.Why it matters: April&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="devastating freeze" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/27/virginia-maryland-wineries-frost-damage" data-vars-content-id="d44ebf7f-a17d-4052-acae-d18cf63d0884" data-vars-headline="A devastating frost is reshaping Virginia wine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/27/virginia-maryland-wineries-frost-damage" target="_self">devastating freeze</a>, which walloped the local <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="apple season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/03/dc-apple-picking-season-frost" data-vars-content-id="d44ebf7f-a17d-4052-acae-d18cf63d0884" data-vars-headline="A devastating frost is reshaping Virginia wine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/09/03/dc-apple-picking-season-frost" target="_self">apple season</a>, is now reshaping what Virginia wineries make — and what wine lovers will eventually find in tasting rooms, shops and restaurants.

Why the courts could prevent a sudden Kennedy Center demolition

What lawyers say about the chances of a teardown.

If it feels like the bulldozers could roll up to the Kennedy Center at any moment, just like the East Wing, there are a few reasons why lawyers believe this situation is different. Why it matters: A picture of President Trump peering at a poster that says &quot;Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED&quot; is worrying Washington, drawing hundreds of protesters on last Friday.

D.C. traffic feels brutal right now. Here's why

Welcome to the "September shock," when everyone seems to hit the road at exactly the wrong time.

If you&#x27;re wondering why D.C.-area <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="traffic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/07/23/dc-worst-traffic-in-the-us" data-vars-content-id="051a3265-22bf-4f69-bca6-8d35b3875105" data-vars-headline="D.C. traffic feels brutal right now. Here&#x27;s why" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/07/23/dc-worst-traffic-in-the-us" target="_self">traffic</a> feels bonkers-to-bumper right now, you&#x27;re not alone.Why it matters: Washington&#x27;s post-Labor Day traffic is always bad. But commutes have felt so brutal this week that everyone and their political commentators are honking about it on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="social media" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/mattwhitlock/status/2100359375688794244?s=46" data-vars-content-id="051a3265-22bf-4f69-bca6-8d35b3875105" data-vars-headline="D.C. traffic feels brutal right now. Here&#x27;s why" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/mattwhitlock/status/2100359375688794244?s=46" target="_blank">social media</a>.

It's a big festival weekend in D.C.

H Street, Sawasdee, Oktoberfest and more fun.

Things to Do

Live music, food and exhibits will take over 12 blocks of H Street again on Saturday.Why it matters: The annual festival began as a block party 19 years ago, and this year will have 15 stages for performances while turning H Street NE into a pedestrianized zone.

How to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month around D.C.

Hungry for more? <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hispanic Heritage Month" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/09/15/houston-hispanic-heritage-month-events" data-vars-content-id="1025529b-2c01-4164-9081-7ffe80dddc41" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month around D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/09/15/houston-hispanic-heritage-month-events" target="_self">Hispanic Heritage Month</a> is underway, and D.C. is celebrating with tacos, salsa, movies and more through Oct. 15.Dig in: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Taquería Xochi" data-vars-click-url="https://www.taqueriaxochi.com/" data-vars-content-id="1025529b-2c01-4164-9081-7ffe80dddc41" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month around D.C." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.taqueriaxochi.com/" target="_blank">Taquería Xochi</a>&#x27;s Navy Yard location celebrates Mexican Independence Day tonight with Noche Mexicana, featuring pozole rojo, pambazos, music and margarita and tequila specials.

New Union Station art show explores America's competitive side

More than 30 artists explore America's competitive side.

The art of the game is on display at Union Station, where a new pop-up gallery explores sports through the eyes of artists.The big picture: &quot;America: The Game&quot; looks at how competition and rivalries have shaped American culture and identity, featuring work from more than 30 artists through Oct. 10.

Your D.C. Weekend: All-night art events

Culture vultures can party around the clock this week at two nighttime art events.Why it matters: Team no sleep!

How to volunteer around D.C. for 9/11 Day of Service

Pack meals, clean veterans cemeteries and more ways to mark the 25th anniversary through service.

Sept. 11 is a National Day of Service and Remembrance, with several ways to pitch in around the DMV.The big picture: More than 2,000 volunteers will gather at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center Friday to pack over 700,000 meals for the Capital Area Food Bank, according to organizers.

Mystics and Spirit team up for D.C.'s Capital Queens

Capital Queens brings a joint ticket pass, exclusive merch and fan events to D.C. this week.

It&#x27;s the D.C. sports crossover episode we&#x27;ve been waiting for. <ul><li>The Spirit and the Mystics are teaming up for Capital Queens, a weeklong celebration of women&#x27;s sports.</li></ul>Why it matters: The playoff-bound Mystics are closing out their regular season. The Spirit are closing in on a playoff spot. Oh, and both are coming off a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="weekend of wins" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/WashSpirit/status/2101826123764043830" data-vars-content-id="ed979f5d-bf9d-440f-adf7-9b0f17076ddf" data-vars-headline="Mystics and Spirit team up for D.C.&#x27;s Capital Queens" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/WashSpirit/status/2101826123764043830" target="_blank">weekend of wins</a>.

Maryland football wants adult fans to party like students

You don't have to be 21 to dress up, cheer loud and act a fool.

Ever wish you could relive your college days? That&#x27;s not just the plot of &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Old School" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EObX_ON5iSI" data-vars-content-id="b17670da-0156-4a4f-9f9c-4685f8512849" data-vars-headline="Maryland football wants adult fans to party like students" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EObX_ON5iSI" target="_blank">Old School</a>.&quot; It&#x27;s the idea behind the new Terp Tank at Maryland&#x27;s SECU Stadium. <ul><li>A block of 900 lower-level seats is now reserved for &quot;the loudest and most passionate&quot; football fans. </li></ul>Why it matters: Maryland&#x27;s athletic department is revamping the game day experience in a bid to boost football revenue.

Alex Ovechkin appears in Putin party campaign video

The Capitals star's appearance in a United Russia election ad is reigniting scrutiny of his longtime ties to Vladimir Putin.

A campaign video for Vladimir Putin&#x27;s ruling party that features Washington Capitals star <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Alex Ovechkin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/07/02/alex-ovechkin-capitals-contract-extension-22nd-season" data-vars-content-id="51a8fa55-4f40-492a-a98d-e92c46fa1d91" data-vars-headline="Alex Ovechkin appears in Putin party campaign video" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/07/02/alex-ovechkin-capitals-contract-extension-22nd-season" target="_self">Alex Ovechkin</a> is reigniting scrutiny of the hockey legend&#x27;s ties to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Russian" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/russia" data-vars-content-id="51a8fa55-4f40-492a-a98d-e92c46fa1d91" data-vars-headline="Alex Ovechkin appears in Putin party campaign video" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/russia" target="_self">Russian</a> leader.Why it matters: Ovechkin&#x27;s public support for Putin has long coexisted with his status as one of D.C.&#x27;s most celebrated athletes.

NFL season preview: Daniels, Commanders hope to bounce back

The Commanders hope to return to playoff form as the 2026 season begins.

After injuries and a shaky defense derailed last year&#x27;s high hopes, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Commanders" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/12/02/washington-commanders-hbo-hard-knocks-season" data-vars-content-id="1f771615-7666-481d-8866-530abb20fa3b" data-vars-headline="NFL season preview: Daniels, Commanders hope to bounce back" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/12/02/washington-commanders-hbo-hard-knocks-season" target="_self">Commanders</a> are chasing a return to playoff form as the 2026 season begins.Why it matters: Washington looked like one of the NFL&#x27;s rising teams after the 2024 season, when rookie-of-the-year quarterback Jayden Daniels led the Commanders on a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deep postseason run" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/01/26/commanders-eagles-washington-loss-super-bowl" data-vars-content-id="1f771615-7666-481d-8866-530abb20fa3b" data-vars-headline="NFL season preview: Daniels, Commanders hope to bounce back" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/01/26/commanders-eagles-washington-loss-super-bowl" target="_self">deep postseason run</a>.

Rising women's golf stars tee off at historic Langston

A circuit spotlighting emerging Black and Latina players is holding its championship at Langston this week.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Langston Golf Course" data-vars-click-url="https://www.playdcgolf.com/langston-history/" data-vars-content-id="8f1b1bdf-193b-4212-abd7-32d05414dbff" data-vars-headline="Rising women&#x27;s golf stars tee off at historic Langston" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.playdcgolf.com/langston-history/" target="_blank">Langston Golf Course</a> has long been a hub for Black golfers in D.C. This week, a new generation of pros competes there. The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sapphire Golf Tour" data-vars-click-url="https://sapphiregolftour.com/" data-vars-content-id="8f1b1bdf-193b-4212-abd7-32d05414dbff" data-vars-headline="Rising women&#x27;s golf stars tee off at historic Langston" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sapphiregolftour.com/" target="_blank">Sapphire Golf Tour</a> — a women&#x27;s pro golf circuit spotlighting emerging Black and Latina players — is holding its championship at Langston through Saturday.

Michelin adds 4 buzzy restaurants to its 2026 D.C. guide

The newcomers are officially Michelin-recommended. Could any be D.C.'s next star?

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/11/19/michelin-guide-dc-star-bib-gourmand-awards-2025" data-vars-content-id="8fcb8f77-ba46-45df-b916-7be83625b4fe" data-vars-headline="Michelin adds 4 buzzy restaurants to its 2026 D.C. guide" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/11/19/michelin-guide-dc-star-bib-gourmand-awards-2025" target="_self">Michelin</a> just added four D.C. restaurants to its guide — a teaser before the full 2026 awards drop later this year.Why it matters: The newcomers are now officially Michelin-recommended — and could be in the running for stars or value-minded Bib Gourmand honors when the annual awards are announced.

Pati Jinich's new cookbook celebrates the "misunderstood" borderlands

The D.C.-area cooking star's new cookbook celebrates the misunderstood flavors and cultures of the U.S.-Mexico borderlands.

If you&#x27;re craving homemade tortillas and real-deal tacos, good news: Local Mexican cooking star <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pati Jinich" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/04/28/pati-jinich-new-pbs-show-panamericana" data-vars-content-id="45ab228a-98b4-4ddb-baab-e73613e4e167" data-vars-headline="Pati Jinich&#x27;s new cookbook celebrates the &quot;misunderstood&quot; borderlands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/04/28/pati-jinich-new-pbs-show-panamericana" target="_self">Pati Jinich</a>&#x27;s newest book just hit shelves.Why it matters: The &quot;Pati&#x27;s Mexican Table&quot; host has transformed years of travel for her hit PBS series &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="La Frontera" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pbs.org/show/la-frontera-pati-jinich/" data-vars-content-id="45ab228a-98b4-4ddb-baab-e73613e4e167" data-vars-headline="Pati Jinich&#x27;s new cookbook celebrates the &quot;misunderstood&quot; borderlands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pbs.org/show/la-frontera-pati-jinich/" target="_blank">La Frontera</a>&quot; into a cookbook that takes home cooks to the U.S.-Mexico borderlands — birthplace of burritos, nachos, Caesar salad and margaritas.<ul><li>&quot;They&#x27;re often misunderstood, but everybody wants a bite of them,&quot; Jinich tells Axios.</li></ul>

Jack Rose owner opens throwback rooftop bar with $10 cocktails

Carla is bringing back the neighborhood's early-aughts energy with $10 cocktails, throwback tunes and rooftop hangs.

If you were knocking around Adams Morgan in the early 2000s, $40 could buy a pretty good night out — drinks, food, music, maybe even a taxi, depending on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="your zone" data-vars-click-url="https://ghostsofdc.org/2023/11/10/zone-fare-system-to-taxi-meters-dcs-great-taxi-debate/" data-vars-content-id="d0a34904-c802-412a-afd4-46c3b2995370" data-vars-headline="Jack Rose owner opens throwback rooftop bar with $10 cocktails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ghostsofdc.org/2023/11/10/zone-fare-system-to-taxi-meters-dcs-great-taxi-debate/" target="_blank">your zone</a>.<ul><li>Now that sounds like a fantasy. It&#x27;s also the inspiration for Carla, a new rooftop bar opening Thursday.</li></ul>Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jack Rose" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/12/11/liquor-store-sandwiches-adams-morgan-premier-drams" data-vars-content-id="d0a34904-c802-412a-afd4-46c3b2995370" data-vars-headline="Jack Rose owner opens throwback rooftop bar with $10 cocktails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2023/12/11/liquor-store-sandwiches-adams-morgan-premier-drams" target="_self">Jack Rose</a> owner Bill Thomas and partner John Roberts are trying to recapture the low-key, affordable energy of their early D.C. bar days — with $10 happy hour cocktails, live tunes and a rooftop where you can smoke a cigar.

New food is hitting the Smithsonian museum's cafes

More than 30 new dishes and drinks are hitting seven museums, from apple-cinnamon fry bread and oxtail to sake cocktails.

If your idea of Smithsonian food is astronaut ice cream, get ready to actually eat: More than 30 new dishes and drinks are landing across seven museums this fall.Why it matters: September is shaping up to be a great time to dine around the Smithsonian — from apple-cinnamon fry bread to oxtail and sake cocktails.

Capitol Hill gets a one-pound mozzarella stick

A one-pound mozzarella stick lands on Capitol Hill Thursday night.Why it matters: $20 in quarters. Three billiard balls. A pudgy guinea pig. This mozz-strosity weighs as much as all of them.

The DMV is buzzing over Yemeni coffee

Move over, pumpkin spice latte. The hottest new coffee trend comes from Yemen.

Move over, pumpkin spice latte. The hottest new coffee trend comes from Yemen. The big picture: In recent years, Yemeni-American cafe chains — including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qahwah House" data-vars-click-url="https://qahwahhouse.com/" data-vars-content-id="8779348e-5442-4ac9-be55-dbc9c2588531" data-vars-headline="The DMV is buzzing over Yemeni coffee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://qahwahhouse.com/" target="_blank">Qahwah House</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qamaria" data-vars-click-url="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="8779348e-5442-4ac9-be55-dbc9c2588531" data-vars-headline="The DMV is buzzing over Yemeni coffee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" target="_blank">Qamaria</a>, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Haraz Coffee House" data-vars-click-url="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" data-vars-content-id="8779348e-5442-4ac9-be55-dbc9c2588531" data-vars-headline="The DMV is buzzing over Yemeni coffee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" target="_blank">Haraz Coffee House</a> — have opened locations in the D.C. area, and percolated across the country.

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