The Needle: Data Shows Black Workers Were Hit Hardest by DOGE Cuts, DOJ Filed Notice That East Potomac Park Will Close Nov. 15, a Small Minnesota Firm Given $257 Million Kennedy Center Contract, and More
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Gail O'Hara (via Washington CityPaper)
Race theory: New Washington Post data shows Black workers were hit hardest by convicted felon and President Donald Trump and DOGE’s federal job cuts: More than half the firing targets were Black, nearly a third were White, 13 percent were Asian, and 8 percent were Hispanic. Nearly 20 percent of federal workers left under Trump. About 85 percent resigned or retired, and about 32,000 workers were fired. In his first 18 months back in office, 426,000 full-time, civilian workers left federal service, and Black employment fell by 20 percent. Some were reinstated after judges’ orders. A so-called “DEI Watchlist” also identified 93 workers, two-thirds of whom are Black. Minus two points for institutional racism. -2 [Post]
Course incorrect: On Wednesday night, the DOJ filed notice saying East Potomac Park golf course will close Nov. 15 for 15 months and the National Park Service will submit plans today for the National Capital Planning Commission to review. On Nov. 15, the filing says NPS will close the park south of Buckeye Drive, including the golf course. Judge Ana Reyes on Monday temporarily barred the government from removing or damaging any more trees but the DOJ filing says the National Links Trust, which operates the course, will stop operating it after Nov. 15. Critics say Trump’s plan will inhibit public park use. The NCPC will consider the proposal at its Dec. 3 meeting. Minus two points for rushing to ruin a public space. -2 [WTOP]
Architectural digest: Small, little-known Minnesota architecture firm ATSR, which usually designs regional elementary schools, high schools, and churches, has been awarded the $257 million contract to renovate the Kennedy Center. Such institutions typically hire major national firms with specialized experience in D.C. The appointment came after the center rewrote its contracting policies, declaring itself exempt from federal procurement rules requiring jobs to be publicly posted even though it had adhered to those rules for decades. A center spokesperson declined to disclose whether other firms were considered or explain why ATSR was chosen for the project. Minus one point for a lack of transparency and awarding no-bid contracts without explanation. -1 [Post]
For the birds: Birders are among the groups protesting Trump’s plans to fancify East Potomac Park, which would eliminate the public road around the area, along with Hains Point, a popular birdwatching spot. DC Bird Alliance has been hosting walks there to raise awareness, and are even publishing an art book, Hold the Point, that will benefit the DC Preservation League. Hains Point’s ecology and location makes it a key stop for migrating birds, including terns, Canada geese, and red-breasted mergansers. A database has recorded 271 species seen at Hains Point. Trump’s plan would shrink the habitat. Plus one point for standing up for other species. +1 [Washingtonian]
Flock yes, Virginia! Alexandria will stop using all license plate-reading cameras today. City officials will discuss potential future surveillance technology but the city has canceled its contract with Flock and Alexandria Police Chief Tarrick McGuire says all cameras will be removed by December. When the announcement was made at Tuesday’s council meeting, attendees applauded. Arlington and Dumfries removed Flock cameras in September, and Fairfax County has paused the program pending further review. Plus two points for listening to the people. +2 [NBC4]
