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In response to a surge in violent crime, dozens of trade and industry groups have reached out to District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser and council members, calling for urgent action.

The group, which includes the US Chamber of Commerce, the American Bankers Association, and the National Retail Federation, sent a letter expressing their “deep concern about the alarming increase in violent crime across our city.” This plea for intervention comes after Washington DC recorded a 39% increase in violent crime during 2022, starkly contrasting with national declines.

In the letter, the group wrote, “As job creators, taxpayers, and dedicated contributors to the economic and social well-being of our nation’s capital, we urge the Mayor and City Council to address this pressing issue that threatens the safety and prosperity of not only our community but also our employees and their families.”

The business leaders also referenced various incidents, including the carjacking of Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX), who described the nation’s capital as “two or three times more dangerous” than his own district on the southern border.