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2w ago

Trayon White Wins Ward 8 Special Election Despite Federal Bribery Charges

His victory secures his council seat months before his January 2026 bribery trial

A mobile billboard truck displays a message in support of former District of Columbia Councilman Trayon White outside the Anacostia Neighborhood Library during the Ward 8 special election, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Former District of Columbia Councilman Trayon White talks to a voter outside Union Temple Baptist Church during the Ward 8 special election, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
A mobile billboard truck displays a message in support of former District of Columbia Councilman Trayon White outside the Anacostia Neighborhood Library during the Ward 8 special election, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Former District of Columbia Councilman Trayon White talks to a voter outside Union Temple Baptist Church during the Ward 8 special election, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Overview

  • White captured nearly 30% of votes in a special election that drew fewer than 9,000 voters to reclaim his Ward 8 seat.
  • The win comes five months after the D.C. Council unanimously expelled him over allegations he accepted $156,000 in bribes to steer city contracts.
  • White has pleaded not guilty and faces a federal trial in January 2026, with conviction potentially leading to his second removal and a ban from future office.
  • He ran a minimal campaign with almost no fundraising or public appearances and used an AI-generated Instagram video to encourage voter turnout.
  • Ward 8’s predominantly Black electorate underscored a tension between strong local support and institutional efforts to uphold ethical standards.