Where do things stand in the DC primary races?
Where do things stand in the DC primary races?
Where do things stand in the DC - Early returns from Washington, DC’s Democratic mayoral primary indicate Janeese Lewis George is leading with a significant edge, though CNN has not yet officially declared a winner. As of the latest updates, Lewis George, a DC councilmember and democratic socialist, has captured nearly 53% of the vote based on 64% of ballots counted so far. Her campaign focuses on lowering costs for residents, enhancing municipal services, and opposing President Donald Trump’s policies.
Behind her, former DC Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie trails at approximately 36% with 64% of votes tallied. McDuffie, who previously served as a trial attorney for the Department of Justice during Barack Obama’s presidency, has positioned himself as a contender in the race. However, the outcome remains uncertain as mail ballots from drop boxes and later-arriving votes are still being processed.
The mayoral contest could enter a ranked-choice voting phase if Lewis George’s support drops below 50% as more results are finalized. Despite this possibility, her current lead suggests she is likely to secure the nomination. For McDuffie to overtake her, his support would need to surge significantly, given the narrow margin separating the two candidates.
Delegate race: Robert White clinches Democratic nod
CNN’s Decision Desk has projected Robert White as the winner of the Democratic primary for DC’s nonvoting congressional delegate seat. The at-large councilman will succeed Eleanor Holmes Norton, a long-serving Democrat who announced her retirement from the race in January. Norton, who faced scrutiny over her ability to serve during the Trump administration, had been a prominent advocate for DC autonomy.
"I’ve spent years drafting legislation to loosen Congress’ grip over DC government and empower residents," White said in a campaign speech, emphasizing his role in advancing greater independence for the nation’s capital.
White, who previously worked as a key staff member on Norton’s congressional oversight hearings, has a history of promoting policies aimed at enhancing DC’s self-rule. His campaign also highlighted his experience as the first director of community outreach for the city’s attorney general office. A graduate of American University Washington College of Law, White faces a competitive field in the delegate race.
Among the contenders, Ward 2 Councilmember Brooke Pinto, former senior Norton aide Trent Holbrook, former Democratic National Committee official Kinney Zalesne, and former Nuclear Regulatory Commission chairman Greg Jaczko all vied for the nomination. White’s victory underscores his strong appeal within the Democratic base, despite the absence of voting rights for the DC delegate. His influence, however, remains critical in shaping legislation and debates on the national stage.