DC is not technically a state, or US territory. Consider that DC is currently occupied by a belligerent force. Keep in mind that there are already several dozen American prisoners of war that are rotting in the DC jail without any Constitutional rights being applied; with no charges, no speedy trial, no basic human rights.
WIth that in mind, wouldn't it be better for the truckers to stop just before the line that separates the US states from DC? They would still be blocking the roads. The press and cell phone cameras would still record the protest and share it globally. The effect of the demonstration would be basically the same as one done inside the District.
However, US laws would apply to the protestors in US territory. The Virginia Governor has already shown to be reasonable.
I just don't see the protest being any more impactful inside DC than at the borders of the District.
Thoughts and comments requested.
I have wondered about the thought process in going to DC for the very reasons OP has outlined. Add to that what is happening in Canada, we now know the playbook. I wouldn't be surprised if the current regime isn't salivating over the possibility of a trucker convoy so that they can justify (in their minds) marshal law and the introduction of UN forces on US soil.
Don't forget Biden supposedly told Trudeau to "crush" the Canadian freedom Convoy. We know what they'll do...but they also want us to be paralyzed by fear of that outcome. Unfortunately with so many infiltrations it is definitely intimidating to take a stand. They want to take all our rights and liberties away anyways so why allow them to do that with no pushback? I agree though, best not to have to deal with capitol police, in the very least bc they are a vault that can't even be FOIA'd.