DC Council Expels Trayon White Over Federal Bribery Allegations

The councilmember was unanimously removed after accusations of accepting $156,000 in bribes to influence city contracts.

Trayon White was expelled from the D.C. City Council following unanimous votes from all 11 other members.
Federal authorities allege White accepted $156,000 in bribes to pressure city agencies into extending contracts, with evidence including cash exchanges captured by an FBI informant.
White, who represents Ward 8, pleaded not guilty to the charges and faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted; his trial is scheduled for January 2026.
Despite his arrest in August 2024, White was re-elected in November by a significant margin, reflecting his continued support in his district.
This marks the first expulsion of a councilmember in modern D.C. history, with colleagues citing a breach of public trust as the basis for their decision.