In the wake of his recent special election victory, D.C. Councilmember-elect Trayon White has actively engaged with constituents throughout Ward 8.
White’s visibility during various community events has garnered support from residents, irrespective of their voting choices.
At the third annual Community Connection Day Block Party held at Ferebee-Hope Recreation Center, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8E Chair Kelly Mikel Williams observed a positive atmosphere surrounding White.
”Folks seem to be embracing and supportive and complimentary,” Williams remarked.
He emphasized that the interactions witnessed during the event indicate a willingness among the community to engage with their newly elected representative.
Despite the celebratory sentiment, Williams shared insights on the mixed reactions concerning White’s return to office.
Some residents expressed disappointment, citing a perceived lack of concern for the collective wellbeing of the ward, particularly in light of White’s recent expulsion from the council.
Adding to the narrative of community concern, Williams pointed out the alarmingly low voter turnout in Ward 8 during the election.
Only 7,806 registered voters participated, translating to less than 14% of the electorate.
White emerged victorious with just 2,187 votes, which accounted for under 30% of the electorate.
Other candidates, including attorney Mike Austin, Advisory Neighborhood Commission Chair Salim Adofo, and former D.C. Council chief of staff Sheila Bunn, divided the remaining votes, with Bunn finishing in second place.
Williams underscored the need for greater civic engagement, noting, ”Ward 8 has a lot of power that we’re not using.”
He lamented the lack of electoral participation, arguing that increased voter engagement is essential for the community’s progress.
”If we used our collective power in Ward 8, like Ward 3 does, or Ward 2, or Ward 1, we would not be having this conversation right now,” he stated.
Following the special election, discussions continued among supporters of Initiative 83, advocating for the implementation of ranked-choice voting.
This measure, which passed with over 70% approval from District voters last fall, remains a contentious topic under the council’s purview.
Despite the push for ranked-choice voting, D.C. Councilmember Anita Bonds previously categorized it as a low priority in the budget.
Concerns regarding its potential impact and issues surrounding the signatures submitted for ballot approval have contributed to the hesitancy surrounding the initiative.
However, the D.C. Council did approve a budget amendment to fund the ranked-choice voting aspect of Initiative 83 just a day prior to the special election.
This amendment, initiated by D.C. Councilmembers Christina Henderson and Brianne Nadeau, redirected funds initially designated for a new farmer’s market grant program.
Williams, a Democrat, raised questions about the assumption that ranked-choice voting would serve as a catalyst for civic engagement among disillusioned voters.
”At the point where you only have 7,500 people voting anyway, I don’t think ranked-choice would have done the job,” he asserted.
He suggested that the solution lies in engaging tens of thousands of potential voters who opted not to participate in the election.
White, during a virtual meeting with the Ward 8 Democrats, voiced his own reservations about the funding mechanisms used to support ranked-choice voting.
Asserting the importance of addressing pressing community issues, White expressed concern over the health disparities facing his constituents.
”You have some of the highest health disparities per capita in the country,” he said, emphasizing his opposition to ranked-choice voting.
In his efforts to rally community support, White introduced plans for a strategic planning meeting and unity breakfast.
Additionally, he encouraged residents to participate in a unity kickball game at Lockridge Field, highlighting his commitment to fostering camaraderie within Ward 8.
White emphasized, ”I may be the one who won this election, but if I don’t win, we don’t win.”
This sentiment reflects his belief in the necessity of collaboration and unity among residents.
During the meeting, White also touched on several pressing issues, including public safety, Medicaid funding, housing, and development of the RFK campus.
With Medicaid beneficiaries in Washington, D.C. poised to feel the fallout of upcoming budget cuts, White proposed increasing tax revenues as a potential means to sustain essential healthcare benefits.
The RENTAL Act was also a pivotal talking point, as White indicated his intent to amend the law to promote affordable housing options.
”I did not agree with the RENTAL Act, but I want to offer some amendments to create more affordable housing,” he stated.
His vision for enhancing housing in D.C. extends beyond affordability, touching also on senior housing and community trust funds.
”We need to beef up our ability to put money in the budget like I did with the community and trust to ensure that people can not just rent, but own,” he explained.
Highlighting the role of youth programs in reducing violence, White pointed to funding for out-of-school time activities, literacy initiatives for young children, and scholarships for local students.
He passionately noted, ”It’s not just him; there are other Caliques in this community that are looking for an outlet, looking for something to do, and we’re not providing that.”
White underscored his commitment to addressing these youth needs as he enters his term.
As the D.C. Board of Elections gears up to certify the special election results, White prepares for the challenges of representing Ward 8 without the influence of a committee chairmanship.
During his meeting with the Ward 8 Democrats, he reassured attendees that he is making strides in building relationships with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and other council members to advocate for Ward 8’s interests.
”Even without chairing a committee, I will be on committees,” he articulated, expressing confidence in his ability to influence legislation impacting the local community.
Nevertheless, his impending trial set for January 2026 looms large over his political future.
Facing serious charges related to federal bribery, he acknowledged the challenges that may arise in regaining trust from both council colleagues and constituents.
In light of these challenges, White stated, ”I plan on doing any and everything I can to ensure that people see the transparency with me.”
He emphasized his responsibility to remain approachable and actively engaged with the community.
”That’s what true leadership is all about, not hiding or ducking, but also just standing firm and standing in front of the people,” he affirmed.
Nevertheless, White conceded that his transparency might have limitations, stating, ”Of course, it is a federal investigation going on, an open case.
But what I can talk about, I will…”
The growth of community engagement in Ward 8 is not limited to the political realm.
Brenda Jones, a longtime Ward 8 resident, reflected on the significance of White’s electoral victory, expressing that it was not surprising.
Jones emphasized the need for increased community presence from political leaders, particularly addressing the underlying issues affecting families and children.
According to her, a robust support system for families is paramount to addressing the larger issues facing the community.
”If we don’t help the parents, support the families, we have these issues with children running wild,” she stated, highlighting the intertwined nature of community dynamics.
Looking back, Jones recalled attending candidate forums where White was notable by his absence, expressing the importance of candidate visibility in fostering voter engagement.
Meanwhile, Khadijah Clark, a therapist and lifelong Ward 8 resident, shared her perspective on White’s re-election amid controversy.
Expressing trust in his leadership despite the legal challenges he faces, Clark pointed to the notion of redemption and second chances in political life.
”Everyone deserves a second chance,” she remarked.
In addressing perceptions surrounding White’s situation, she voiced her belief that political dynamics in D.C. often lack consistency and fairness.
”They’re making up all this policy…D.C.’s so trifling when it comes to politics, but you win by Allah’s order,” Clark concluded, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the political landscape.
As Trayon White begins his journey back to the Council, it remains to be seen how he will navigate the complexities of public trust, governance, and his looming trial while striving to serve the diverse needs of Ward 8.
image source from：washingtoninformer
