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In Special Election Bid, Former D.C. Councilmember Trayon White Struggles to Inspire Confidence

June 24, 2025

Former Ward 8 Council member Trayon White, who was expelled earlier this year following an FBI arrest, is now running in a special election to reclaim his seat despite facing federal bribery charges. During a recent candidate forum hosted by the Ward 8 Democrats, White defended his right to due process while competitors Mike Austin, Sheila Bunn, and Salim Adofo emphasized the need for ethical leadership and questioned White's suitability for office. In a subsequent straw poll, White placed third behind Austin and Bunn, with many critics arguing his reelection would further harm Ward 8 and potentially subject him to another expulsion, while the special election winner will serve until January 2029.

Who is affected

  • Ward 8 residents who currently lack council representation during budget season
  • Trayon White, who faces potential second expulsion if reelected
  • The three other candidates competing for the seat (Mike Austin, Sheila Bunn, and Salim Adofo)
  • The broader District of Columbia community affected by budget decisions
  • Vulnerable populations in Ward 8 dependent on programs like Medicaid
  • The LGBTQ community in Ward 8 (mentioned as a topic during the forum)
  • Youth in Ward 8 requiring programs and services

What action is being taken

  • A special election is scheduled for July 15 to fill the vacant Ward 8 council seat
  • Early voting begins on July 11, and mail-in ballots are being distributed
  • Councilmember Henderson is pursuing legislation to prevent expelled council members from serving for five years
  • Candidates are participating in forums to address ward issues including budget concerns, Medicaid cuts, and affordable housing
  • The Ward 8 Democrats and Capital Stonewall Democrats are hosting candidate forums and conducting straw polls

Why it matters

  • Ward 8 currently lacks representation during critical budget deliberations affecting services
  • The election outcome could either restore or further damage trust in local government
  • The winner will influence key issues including Medicaid cuts, affordable housing, and youth programs
  • Congressional Republicans may intensify scrutiny of DC's Home Rule if White returns to office
  • The situation exposes a "loophole" in the council expulsion process that allows expelled members to immediately run again
  • The results will impact Ward 8's ability to secure funding and resources during ongoing budget challenges

What's next

  • The special election is scheduled for July 15, with early voting beginning July 11
  • Trayon White's trial related to bribery allegations is set for January 2026
  • If Henderson's legislation passes, there will be a 2026 ballot vote on a charter amendment preventing expelled council members from serving for five years
  • The winner of the special election will serve until January 2, 2029

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer