akins station

Washington DC Elections

______________________________________________________

Bowser Faces Progressive Challenge in Democratic Primary

Mayor Muriel Bowser is fighting for an unprecedented third term against Councilmember Janeese Lewis George in the June 2026 primary. Recent polling shows Bowser leading 48%-41%, with crime and housing dominating debates. Lewis George criticizes Bowser's handling of homelessness and police reform, while Bowser touts economic recovery efforts. The race could signal whether DC voters want continuity or progressive change. Early voting begins May 28 with election day set for June 4.

At-Large Council Race Splits Over Statehood Strategy

The crowded at-large Council race features sharp divisions on DC statehood tactics. Incumbent Robert White faces challenges from both more aggressive and more conciliatory approaches. Recent forums revealed tensions over whether to pursue lawsuits or congressional negotiations. Six candidates have raised over $100,000 each, making this the most expensive Council race in DC history. The primary will likely decide the winner in this heavily Democratic district.

Attorney General Race Focuses on Juvenile Justice Reform

Incumbent AG Brian Schwalb faces a tough primary challenge from former prosecutor Channing Phillips. The race centers on juvenile crime policies, with Phillips advocating tougher prosecution while Schwalb defends restorative justice programs. Recent crime statistics show mixed results, fueling debates at community forums. Police union endorsements could play a decisive role in the low-turnout election expected for June 2026.

Education Board Elections Draw Unprecedented Attention

This year's State Board of Education elections have attracted record interest after test score declines. Eight candidates are vying for three seats, with charter school expansion becoming the defining issue. The Washington Teachers' Union has spent over $500,000 supporting candidates opposed to charter growth. Early voting begins May 25 for the June 4 election that could reshape DC's education policies.

Ward 4 Showdown Highlights Generational Divide

The Ward 4 Council race pits incumbent Janeese Lewis George against challenger Matt Frumin, representing a clash between progressive and establishment Democrats. Recent debates have turned contentious over development projects and school boundaries. Frumin has out-fundraised the incumbent, but Lewis George maintains strong grassroots support. The June primary winner will likely claim the seat in this solidly Democratic ward.

Police Reform Debate Dominates Ward 8 Race

The open Ward seat has become a referendum on policing strategies. Candidates Trayon White and Rahman Branch offer contrasting visions, with White pushing for more officers and Branch advocating community-based alternatives. Recent crime spikes have made this the most watched local race, with turnout expected to surpass previous elections. The June 4 primary will likely determine the winner.

DC Statehood Amendment Faces Legal Challenges

A proposed constitutional amendment for DC statehood has hit roadblocks in Congress, prompting debate among local candidates. Some advocate more aggressive legal strategies while others push for compromise measures. The issue has divided Council candidates ahead of the June primary, with progressives favoring lawsuits and moderates seeking congressional negotiations. The debate could influence multiple races on the crowded ballot.

Business Groups Spend Big in Council Races

DC business interests have poured $2.1 million into Council races, primarily supporting moderate candidates. The spending has focused on at-large and Ward 2 races where development policies are contested. Progressive groups have countered with $1.8 million in independent expenditures. The flood of money has broken previous records and could sway low-turnout primaries expected in June.

Early Voting Surges in DC Primary Elections

Early voting numbers suggest higher than usual turnout for the June primaries, with over 35,000 ballots already cast. Elections officials attribute the surge to competitive races and extended voting hours. The trend could benefit establishment candidates who typically perform better in early voting. Polls remain open through June 4 at 33 locations across the District.

Housing Crisis Dominates ANC Elections

This year's Advisory Neighborhood Commission elections have become proxy battles over development policies. Candidates in rapidly gentrifying areas are running on starkly different housing platforms. The normally sleepy races have attracted unusual attention and spending, with some ANC candidates raising over $50,000. Results could influence larger policy debates before the Council.

NATIONAL RACES

Ohio Senate Race Tightens in New Poll
Democrat Sherrod Brown leads Republican Bernie Moreno 48%-45% in latest Quinnipiac polling. The race could decide Senate control.

Texas Governor Abbott Faces Strong Challenge
Democrat Mike Collier has pulled within 4 points of Governor Greg Abbott according to June UT-Tyler polling.

California House Seat Flips in Special Election
Republican John Lee won CA-30 special election, flipping a Democratic seat in upset victory.

New York Mayor Adams Trails in Primary Poll
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez leads Mayor Eric Adams 51%-39% in hypothetical 2025 primary matchup.

Florida Senate Race Becomes Most Expensive
Sen. Rick Scott and Democrat Debbie Mucarsel-Powell have collectively raised $58 million for their showdown.

Michigan Governor Whitmer Maintains Solid Lead
Incumbent Gretchen Whitmer leads GOP challenger Tudor Dixon 52%-41% in latest EPIC-MRA survey.

Arizona House Race Heads to Recount
Republican Juan Ciscomani leads Democrat Kirsten Engel by 327 votes in AZ-06, triggering automatic recount.

G. Secretary of State Runs for Governor
Brad Raffensperger announced GOP primary challenge to Governor Brian Kemp, creating three-way race.

Pennsylvania Senate Candidates Debate Fracking
Democrat Bob Casey and Republican Dave McCormick clashed over energy policies in first debate.

Illinois House Member Faces Ethics Probe
Rep. Marie Newman under investigation, complicating her rematch against GOP Rep. Mike Bost.

Nevada Governor Lombardo Trails in Polls
Democrat Steve Sisolak leads incumbent Joe Lombardo 47%-44% in recent Nevada Independent poll.

Maryland Senate Primary Gets Crowd
Rep. David Trone joins Democratic primary against Angela Alsobrooks for open Senate seat.

Colorado GOP Senate Primary Turns Nasty
Joe O'Dea and Greg Lopez exchange attacks in expensive primary ahead of Bennet challenge.

New Mexico Governor Race Remains Stable
Incumbent Michelle Lujan Grisham leads Republican Mark Ronchetti 51%-43% in June polling.

Wisconsin Senate Candidates Debate Abortion
Sen. Tammy Baldwin and GOP challenger Eric Hovde spar over reproductive rights in Milwaukee forum.

Oregon Governor Race Tied in New Survey
Democrat Tina Kotek and Republican Christine Drazan deadlocked at 45% in latest poll.

South Carolina House Seat Flips in Special

Democrat A P won SC-05 special election, surprising observers in conservative district.

Alaska Senate Poll Shows Murkowski Lead
Sen. Lisa Murkowski leads GOP challenger Kelly Tshibaka 48%-42% in ranked-choice polling.

Kansas Governor Race Heats Up
Democrat Laura Kelly and Republican Derek Schmidt tied at 47% in latest SurveyUSA poll.

Iowa Senate Candidate Drops Out
Democrat Mike Franken withdrew from race against Sen. Chuck Grassley, scrambling Democratic plans.

Trayon White Seeks Comeback in Ward 8 Special Election Expelled twice over federal bribery charges, former Councilmember Trayon White is running again in the July 15 Ward 8 special election. Despite pending legal troubles, White remains popular in parts of the ward. He faces three Democratic challengers—Salim Adofo, Mike Austin, and Sheila Bunn—plus six write-in candidates. Critics argue White’s candidacy undermines public trust, while supporters say he’s being unfairly targeted. Early voting begins July 11, with mail-in ballots already circulating across the ward.

Ballot Drop Boxes Open for Ward 8 Voters DC

voters in Ward 8 can now submit mail-in ballots for the special election to replace Trayon White. Ballot drop boxes are available 24/7 through July 15 at locations including Parklands-Turner Library and Navy Yard Metro. The DC Board of Elections has also launched a locator tool to help residents find their nearest drop site. Officials expect high turnout amid intense media coverage and community debate over White’s controversial candidacy.

Salim Adofo Campaigns on Fresh Leadership and Community Roots

ANC Chair Salim Adofo is positioning himself as the reform candidate in the Ward 8 race. A UDC graduate and Army veteran, Adofo emphasizes housing justice, healthcare access, and youth safety. He’s the only candidate supporting term limits for the DC Council and opposes luxury development without Ward 8 homeownership programs. Adofo’s grassroots campaign has gained traction among voters seeking a clean break from past scandals.

Mike Austin Highlights Policy Experience and Economic Vision

Former Deputy Mayor staffer Mike Austin is running on a platform of economic development and government accountability. Raised in Bellevue and a lawyer by training, Austin touts his experience closing United Medical Center and working on major city projects. He pledges to fight for Ward 8’s fair share of resources and has emphasized his readiness to “deliver on day one.” Austin previously ran in 2020 and has strong nonprofit ties.

Sheila Bunn Leans on Federal and Local Government Experience

Sheila Bunn, a former staffer to Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Mayor Vincent Gray, is campaigning on her decades of policy experience. A lifelong Ward 8 resident, Bunn points to her work on the DC TAG program and St. Elizabeth’s redevelopment as proof of her effectiveness. She argues that her federal connections are crucial in today’s political climate and pledges to prioritize housing, education, and public safety.

Ward 8 Voters Divided Over Trayon White’s Return

Trayon White’s re-election bid has split Ward 8. Some residents view him as a champion of the community unfairly targeted by federal prosecutors, while others say his return would damage the Council’s credibility. White’s trial is set for January 2026, but he remains eligible to run. The race has become a referendum on ethics, redemption, and the future of Ward 8 leadership.

Early Voting Centers Announced for Ward 8 Special Election

Early voting for the Ward 8 special election will run July 11–14 at four locations, including Anacostia Public Library and Ferebee-Hope Recreation Center. On Election Day, July 15, voters can cast ballots at any of 13 vote centers across the ward. The DC Board of Elections is encouraging mail-in voting and has mailed ballots to all registered voters.

Write-In Candidates Hope to Disrupt Ward 8 Race

Six write-in candidates—two Democrats, two Republicans, and two independents—are campaigning to shake up the Ward 8 special election. While none have major name recognition, they argue that voters deserve more choices beyond the four Democrats on the ballot. Their platforms range from education reform to public safety and ethics in government.

Ward 8 Election Seen as Test of DC’s Political Culture

The July 15 special election is being closely watched as a test of DC’s political accountability. With a candidate under federal indictment leading the field, observers say the outcome could shape how future scandals are handled. The race also highlights tensions between grassroots loyalty and institutional reform in one of the city’s most underserved wards.

Spanberger Leads Virginia Governor Race

Rep. Abigail Spanberger is the Democratic frontrunner in Virginia’s 2025 gubernatorial race, facing Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears in a high-stakes contest.

Sherrill Wins NJ Democratic Primary for Governor

Rep. Mikie Sherrill secured the Democratic nomination in New Jersey’s gubernatorial race and will face Republican Jack Ciattarelli in November.

VA-11 Special Election Draws Crowded Field

Following Rep. Gerry Connolly’s death, 13 candidates are vying for Virginia’s 11th District seat in the September 9 special election.

AZ-7 Special Election Set for September 23

After Rep. Raúl Grijalva’s passing, Arizona’s 7th District will hold a special election with a wide field of Democratic hopefuls.

TX-18 Special Election Scheduled for November Texas will elect a new representative for the 18th District after Rep. Sylvester Turner’s death. Amanda Edwards leads early polling.

Florida Senate District 19 Flips to GOP

Republican Debbie Mayfield flipped Florida’s SD-19 in a special election, strengthening GOP control in the state legislature.

Minnesota Senate District 60 Stays Blue

Democrats held onto Minnesota’s SD-60 in a January special election, maintaining their narrow majority in the state Senate.

Massachusetts House Seat Remains Democratic Democrats retained the 3rd Bristol House seat in Massachusetts in a June 10 special election, preserving their supermajority.