The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has mandated that all Washington, DC-based staff return to full in-person work starting in February 2026. This directive, communicated by DNC Chairman Ken Martin during an all-staff meeting, has been met with considerable discontent from employees. The DNC staff union described the decision as 'shocking' and 'callous,' particularly given the economic challenges stemming from the previous administration.

The union, which ratified a collective bargaining agreement with the DNC in July 2025, pointed out that the agreement allows for occasional remote work requests. In response to the backlash, Martin stated that there would be flexibility for staff needing to work remotely due to family, medical, or personal matters. He defended the decision by asserting that in-person collaboration is crucial for effective brainstorming and timely decision-making, especially with upcoming election cycles.

Despite Martin's assurances, staff expressed concerns during the meeting about the necessity of in-person work, particularly in light of the successful remote work practices utilized during the 2020 election. The DNC has not publicly addressed the staff's reactions, and the relationship between the DNC and its staff union has been strained, especially following layoffs after the last election. This situation has drawn attention from both within the party and from external observers, including Republican operatives who have criticized the staff's response to the in-person work requirement.

In a separate but related context, on November 6, 2025, thousands of protesters gathered in Washington D.C. as part of the "Flood D.C." campaign, organized by Refuse Fascism and nearly 20 partner organizations. This movement is focused on demanding the removal of President Donald Trump from office, with plans to surround the White House every Monday throughout November. The campaign emphasizes continuous, nonviolent demonstrations, contrasting with previous protests that lacked a singular demand for removal.

Rafael Kadaris, a national organizer for Refuse Fascism, highlighted the movement's primary goal of ensuring Trump's removal, stressing the importance of sustained participation to influence political outcomes. Refuse Fascism, established in 2016, operates through volunteer-led chapters across major U.S. cities. The campaign began with a rally at the Washington Monument, coinciding with the anniversary of Trump's re-election, amid rising concerns regarding his administration's policies.

The organization has collaborated with various groups, including the National Organization for Women and United Native Americans, to address a range of social issues. Volunteers from across the country have traveled to Washington to participate in daily protests, with financial support raised to assist those unable to afford travel expenses.

On the same day, protesters marched from George Washington University to Georgetown University, engaging students and distributing literature to raise awareness about upcoming events. The protests also included a gathering in front of the Supreme Court, coinciding with discussions on a petition challenging the Obergefell vs. Hodges decision, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. Participants voiced concerns about the administration's stance on LGBTQ+ rights and immigration policies, particularly regarding the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Kadaris noted that reports of ICE raids have motivated many to take action, reflecting broader anxieties about the impact of current policies on diverse communities. The movement's organizers assert that their right to protest is protected under the First Amendment, reinforcing their commitment to ongoing demonstrations against perceived injustices.