WASHINGTON, D.C. — Trayon White’s attempt to reclaim his former D.C. Council seat in the upcoming Ward 8 special election has been met with strong skepticism from voters, rivals, and community leaders alike. Despite maintaining his innocence in a federal bribery case, White’s limited public engagement and pending legal troubles have made it difficult for him to regain the trust of a community already fatigued by scandal and political instability.
Limited Engagement Amid Mounting Doubts
Since announcing his candidacy, White has only appeared at two special election forums, raising questions about his commitment to public accountability. At a recent event hosted by the Ward 8 Democrats in the Bundy’s Secret Garden behind the Go-Go Museum & Café, White briefly addressed the federal charges that led to his expulsion from the council earlier this year.
“I’m entitled to due process,” White said, deflecting deeper inquiry. “As someone accused of a serious crime, it’s not wise for me to speak on that… I have to have my day in court.”
Shortly after making his statement, White left the forum early to attend a family wedding, drawing criticism for avoiding further questions. His exit only amplified concerns from residents and opponents who feel his campaign lacks both clarity and accountability.
Straw Poll Results Underscore Public Sentiment
Following the Ward 8 Democrats forum, 130 registered Democrats participated in a straw poll. White finished third out of four candidates. Mike Austin, a former council staffer and ANC commissioner, emerged as the frontrunner with 47 votes. Sheila Bunn, a seasoned political aide who served as chief of staff to Councilmember Vince Gray and Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, came in second with 40 votes. Salim Adofo, an ANC commissioner and former challenger to White, placed last with six votes.
Austin has positioned himself as a capable, policy-focused leader ready to restore Ward 8’s voice at the council. “We can no longer give passes for malfeasance,” Austin said. “Right now, we have an opportunity to correct the mistakes.”
White, in response, encouraged residents to lean on at-large councilmembers and Chairman Phil Mendelson. “We can never depend on one elected official to be the sole source of helping our people,” he said. “It was always the power of the people.”
But others weren’t convinced. Adofo argued that a return to White’s leadership would only deepen Ward 8’s struggles. “We need to move in a different direction,” he said. “We can’t continue to relive the same issues.”
Ethical Concerns Fuel Voter Distrust
White’s re-election campaign is shadowed by serious allegations: a federal bribery charge and a trial set for January 2026, involving claims he attempted to steer public funds to a contractor in exchange for money. Despite pleading not guilty, the damage to his public image is evident.
If re-elected, White could face another expulsion. Recognizing this loophole, Councilmember Christina Henderson has proposed legislation to prevent expelled councilmembers from seeking re-election for five years. Her Public Service Exception Charter Amendment Act of 2025 would give voters the chance to decide on the amendment in the 2026 election.
“I felt like [White running again] essentially took the consequence out of the process,” Henderson told The Informer.
Community Voices Favor Fresh Leadership
Ward 8 residents are growing increasingly vocal about the need for trustworthy and effective leadership. Devon Lesesne, a former staffer for Councilmember LaRuby May and current supporter of Mike Austin, said the ward needs someone who can master the legislative process and deliver on policy—not just community engagement.
“Trayon hasn’t taken accountability,” Lesesne said. “There’s too much emotional and mental exhaustion tied to seeing someone you once trusted caught in scandal.”
Charles Turner, a resident of Shipley Terrace and Adofo supporter, echoed that view. “He’s saying the same thing he said eight years ago,” Turner said of White. “He hasn’t grown into the position. He’s reached his level of incompetence.”
Turner praised Adofo’s commitment to youth development, traffic safety, and mental health—issues he believes are more critical than ever.
Bunn Gains Support from Former Candidate, Faces Criticism
Sheila Bunn, a longtime public servant, has drawn both praise and scrutiny. Charnal Chaney, a former special election candidate and yoga studio owner, endorsed Bunn for her deep understanding of council operations and commitment to mental health.
“She was the only one willing to invest in healing houses and holistic wellness,” Chaney said. “Right now, we need someone with council allies who can get things passed even without immediate committee assignments.”
However, not all voters are convinced. Regina Pixley, a vocal White supporter and Democratic Party committeewoman, criticized Bunn’s past performance in Councilmember Gray’s office, accusing her of inadequate response to constituent needs during Gray’s illness.
Bunn responded directly at the forum: “I was not the elected official, but our team stepped up to serve Ward 7 during a very difficult time. We worked hard to ensure residents were heard and represented.”
Election Holds High Stakes for Ward 8
The special election is set for July 15, with early voting beginning July 11. The winner will complete the remainder of White’s vacated term through January 2, 2029.
The race comes at a crucial time, as the District faces budget cuts, congressional interference, and community frustration over unmet needs in housing, transportation, public safety, and healthcare. Forum topics ranged from Medicaid cuts and RFK campus redevelopment to LGBTQ protections and a proposed wellness center at Poplar Point.
Despite the crowded field, many residents and candidates appear united on one front: Ward 8 needs new, effective leadership—not recycled controversy.
As Chaney put it, “The ward needs someone who can be productive from day one, without distractions. Right now, that’s not Trayon White.”
Leave a Reply