White House encourages federal agencies to allow employees to attend Capitals parade

The White House is encouraging federal agencies to allow employees to leave work for two hours on Tuesday to attend the championship parade for the Washington Capitals.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) said Monday that the government will remain open during the parade, which is slated to roll down Constitution Avenue and conclude with a rally on the National Mall. 

Federal agencies are encouraged to allow employees to take two hours of leave between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., OPM said.

{mosads}

While the government will remain open during the parade, agencies are allowed to authorize employees to work remotely. 

The Capitals won the Stanley Cup last Thursday by defeating the Vegas Golden Knights. It marked the first major Washington, D.C., sports team to win a championship in 26 years. 

President Trump congratulated the team on Twitter shortly after their victory, saying the city was “popping, in many ways.”

“Congratulations to the Washington Capitals on their GREAT play and winning the Stanley Cup Championship. Alex Ovechkin, the team captain, was spectacular – a true Superstar! D.C. is popping, in many ways. What a time!” Trump tweeted.

Congratulations to the Washington Capitals on their GREAT play and winning the Stanley Cup Championship. Alex Ovechkin, the team captain, was spectacular – a true Superstar! D.C. is popping, in many ways. What a time!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 8, 2018

Tuesday’s parade is expected to draw tens of thousands of fans to downtown Washington, prompting road closures.