Brian Footer, a Gay Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, has officially announced his candidacy for the Ward 1 D.C. Council seat in the upcoming 2026 elections. Footer emphasizes his commitment to forming a diverse coalition of supporters focused on addressing the various concerns impacting Ward 1 residents, including issues relevant to the LGBTQ community.
In a recent interview, Footer articulated his vision for the city, highlighting a range of key issues he intends to tackle if elected. These include making housing more affordable, enhancing public safety, and facilitating easier business operations within the community.
Footer stated, “Public service is something that has always been ingrained in me. Local government is where I’ve chosen to channel that passion because it directly impacts people’s lives.”
As a Democrat, Footer will compete for the Ward 1 Council seat in the Democratic primary scheduled for June 2, 2026. Should he secure the primary and subsequently win in the general election, he would become the second openly gay member of the Council.
The current Ward 1 Council member, Brianne Nadeau, also a Democrat, has yet to confirm her plans regarding re-election. Meanwhile, Terry Lynch, a long-time community activist, has also declared his intention to run for the Ward 1 Council seat as a Democrat.
Footer reflects on his long-standing connection to D.C., stating that he is a third-generation native of the area, with deep family roots throughout the community. He described D.C. as both his home and a vibrant haven for the LGBTQ+ community, which has significantly influenced his personal and professional life.
Footer’s career in public service began in the U.S. House as a page for Dick Gephardt and later encompassed roles at the New York City Council under Speaker Christine Quinn, where he was involved in local policy focusing on aging and veterans affairs. His experience sparked a passion for local government as a meaningful avenue for creating change in people’s everyday lives.
In 2014, Footer first ran for Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) and returned to serve as chair of ANC 1E in 2022.
Currently residing in the northern Shaw neighborhood, Footer emphasizes the urgency of addressing several critical issues facing Ward 1, including public safety and housing affordability. He noted that the steep rise in rent over the past decade has left many families struggling.
“The rent is too high. It is unaffordable for lots of families,” Footer remarked. He cited a more than 66 percent increase in rent compared to a mere 25 percent rise in the consumer price index for the area, highlighting that the issue of housing affordability is more pressing than ever.
Additionally, Footer stressed the need for better coordination between public safety programs, pointing to a lack of comprehensive solutions for both law enforcement and compassionate services for those in need. He believes that integrating targeted policies and improving essential services such as street lighting and behavioral health support will make residents feel safer.
When discussing the incumbent Council member, Footer refrained from criticizing Nadeau directly, expressing respect for her service while noting that many constituents are seeking a new vision for the future of Ward 1. His campaign aims to foster a community dialogue centered on safety, stability, and inclusive governance.
Footer, proud of his identity within the LGBTQ community, expressed a desire to ensure that all residents—especially queer individuals—feel recognized and supported. He emphasized the importance of affirming safe housing and resources for LGBTQ+ seniors, who often face unique challenges compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers.
In response to a question about the D.C. Council’s consideration of a proposal to repeal a law impacting tipped wages, Footer proposed that a comprehensive approach is necessary, advocating for the well-being of both small businesses and their employees. He conveyed skepticism about repealing voter-approved measures but recognized the evolving economic landscape’s implications.
The recent rise in anti-trans violence in D.C. has raised alarms within the community. In a disturbing case, Cayla Calhoun, a 43-year-old transgender woman, was attacked by three men while riding her scooter near the Lincoln Memorial. The police are investigating the incident classified as a hate-bias crime.
Calhoun was found injured and confused after the attack, raising concerns about the safety of transgender individuals in the District. She later recalled that the attackers had hurled derogatory slurs at her before the assault, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by the transgender community.
The D.C. police report indicates that Calhoun’s case remains under active investigation, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. This incident is part of a larger pattern of violence against transgender individuals in Washington, D.C., raising urgent calls for enhanced safety measures and community support.
In a separate murder case, Dream Johnson, a 28-year-old transgender woman, lost her life just days after Calhoun’s attack. This senseless violence against trans individuals underscores the critical need for effective advocacy and community safety initiatives in the District.
Calhoun’s case reflects broader concerns about the treatment and safety of transgender people, particularly amid rising hate crimes. Advocacy groups emphasize the need for improved services and support systems for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly the youth who are disproportionately affected by homelessness and harassment.
As Footer embarks on his campaign, he faces the dual challenge of addressing pressing urban issues while advocating for the needs of marginalized communities. His plans will focus on ensuring that all residents, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, are seen, heard, and supported in the pursuit of greater equity and inclusion in D.C.
Community members and activists continue to rally for justice and improved conditions, not only for the victims of violence but also for the future of all residents in Ward 1 and beyond. Footer’s candidacy is a testament to the ongoing commitment to public service and the fight for dignity and rights for all members of the D.C. community.
image source from：washingtonblade
