Striking visuals dominate AP’s coverage of federal intervention in Washington, D.C.

When Washington became the subject of federal law enforcement intervention that brought the military and national agencies in visible force, the D.C. bureau banded together to cover it. Visual journalists not only got content on the scene but informed other formats’ reporting. Text reporters made photos and shot video, working with video colleagues to do daily recaps and explainers.

AP video journalist Rick Gentilo was at Union Station when Vice President J.D. Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a surprise visit, where they thanked National Guard troops and were confronted by protesters. Gentilo’s debrief, edited by video intern River Zhang, transported the audience to the chaotic scene.

Curtis Yee on the Digital Live Blog desk filmed a neighborhood protest of an FBI raid. Congressional reporter Matt Brown shared UGC videos of an ICE arrest. Brian Scanlon of Election Services shared his wife’s footage of an ICE officer outside their home. Director of Public Opinion Research Emily Swanson shared a video of the aftermath of a carjacking. Even Washington Bureau Chief Anna Johnson had footage of protesters banging pots and pans.

Photographer Jacquelyn Martin was on site when federal officers showed up in another neighborhood. Freelancer Rod Lamkey spotted armed members of the South Carolina National Guard on foot patrol at Union Station and alerted photo editor Paula Munoz.

The judges praised the staff for the quick and collaborative work that stretched across the city. Images went everywhere.

For setting the tone and working together as a well-oiled cross-format team, the Washington, D.C., staff is this week’s Best of the Week — Second Winner.