WMATA CEO Randy Clarke is facing criticism over the National Guard’s reputation

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) CEO and general manager Randy Clarke has faced criticism after posting on social media praising the cooperation between Metro workers and National Guard soldiers in Washington, DC, which was criticized by some citizens.

Clarke spoke directly to his critics when he emphasized the respect of civil servants.

“Sadly Twitter can bring out the worst in people and society,” Clarke wrote Tuesday on X, formerly Twitter. “I have great respect for those who wear the uniform to serve the community and our country; be it Metro workers or the Nat’l Guard.”

“Hear me about politics or hate me, but please be kind to government employees who are just doing their job,” he added.

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The response came after Clarke’s tweet on Sunday X revealed what he described as a good relationship between Metro workers and National Guard soldiers in the city.

“[I] We appreciate the way our @wmata team and @DCGuard1802 have built a great relationship between shifts,” said Clarke. “Our station commander was thrilled to receive a challenge coin from General Blanchard who personally came out to inspect his team.”

The National Guard is deployed in Washington, DC, to support roles related to public safety and transportation operations, including a presence in and around Metro stations.

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FBI Director Kash Patel, flanked by Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, speaks to the media following the shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington, DC, on November 26, 2025. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The original post drew criticism from some social media users who objected to both the logo and the military presence in the city.

“Coins that challenge law enforcement, not to mention the presence of National Guard troops in our city, should not be celebrated,” one user wrote. “Often they are naked and against the society they should be serving.”

“The National Guard should not be anywhere near this city, and your acceptance of them is an insult to all Washingtonians who are tired of living under the military,” said another.

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National Guard members patrol the Washington Mall, with the Washington Monument in the background, on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026. (Rahmat Gul/AP)

However, one user pointed out that WMATA has limited control over the troop’s presence.

“In their defense, Metro Forward had no choice and they stood by it. So trying to get along is the least they can do and it’s still working.”

A separate response from user Melik Abdul dismissed Clarke’s criticism, citing security concerns in the transportation system.

“Laughing at the hurt feelings of people who can’t even dare to go to certain areas of the city for fear of safety,” said Abdul. “But now it’s gnashing of teeth that the transport manager took pictures with the national guard.”

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“Where were they, you ask? The same transit system WMATA CEO Randy Clarke runs.”