Overview

• Trump said half of Washington restaurants had closed because people were too afraid to go out due to crime.
• José Andrés called the statement a flat-out lie and argued that federal troops and agents are what deter customers and staff.
• OpenTable data show seated reservations fell 16–31 percent year over year from Aug. 11–15 following the federal control announcement.
• The White House said federal action is restoring safety, while the Restaurant Association extended Summer Restaurant Week through Aug. 31 to support sales.
• Restaurant leaders report worker anxiety tied to immigration enforcement, with some businesses reducing operations or temporarily closing, including La Tejana.