Thirteen people sit on the Council of the District of Columbia (don’t call it the “City Council,” please), including five at-large members who represent all of DC rather than one of the eight wards specifically. Two at-large seats are up for grabs in the 2020 General Election. Twenty-three (!) (plus 1 person who’s dropped out) are vying for these seats: 1 Democrat (incumbent), 1 Republican, 1 Statehood Green party member, 1 Libertarian party member, and 19 Independents (reportedly majority of these 19 were previously registered Democrat at some point).

To help make your choice (you can vote for ZERO, ONE, or TWO of the candidates), I sent a questionnaire out at 8am on Thursday, Oct 1st with a pretty unreasonable 84 hour turnaround time of 8pm Sunday, October 4th, so I wouldn’t hold it too against those whose answers are not listed below. But given that the mail ballot drop boxes begin accepting ballots on Monday, October 5th, I felt it was imperative to get this information out there. I’ve also asked my Twitter followers to send me why they are supporting certain candidates. Donation information comes from DC Geekery and it appears to reflect donations in reports submitted by October 1st). Fair Elections participants can accept only $100 max contributions outside their family from individuals only (no corporations or PACs) but can get a solid amount of public money.

Not necessarily a recommendation, but personally I will be voting for Chander Jayaraman and Christina Henderson (see this Twitter thread for rationale).

But first, here a few helpful links (thanks to followers and Google who connected me to these; send any more to barredindc@gmail.com or @barredindc on Twitter):

Obligatory:

• DCist (questionnaire responses and short summaries, highly recommended)
• Washington Post (19 out of 23 remaining candidates responded)
• Washington City Paper (22 out of 23 remaining candidates responded)

Other Great Guides:

• DC Voter Guide (from DC Working Families, who clearly is endorsing Ed Lazere, but it’s a snazzy format)
• List of Endorsements (compiled in his personal capacity by Zach Teutsch, the campaign chair for presumptive Ward 4 councilmember Janeese Lewis George) 
• Greater Greater Washington endorsements (links to questionnaires including)
• The Hill is Home Election Guide (links to several statements)
• Vote 411 (enter address, get statements sent to League of Women Voters based on your ballot)
• DC Action for Children (questionnaire responses)
• Washington Teacher’s Union (questionnaire responses)
• DC Latino Caucus (questionnaire responses)
• GLAA (LGBTQ issues)
• Coalition for DC Public Schools and Communities C4DC (questionnaire responses)
• DC Voters for Animals (questionnaire responses)
• Planned Parenthood (% ratings and endorsement)
• Streetsense Media (questionnaire responses)
• Watch Official Debates (three of them)
• Barred in DC Twitter Thread – Debate 1 (Garcia, Rogers, Gurley, Batchelor)
• Barred in DC Twitter Thread – Debate 2 (Goodwin, Lazere, Orange, C Henderson, Merrifield, Palacio, Scruggs)
• Barred in DC Twitter Thread – Debate 3 (Jayaraman, Padro, Pickering, White, WIlcox)

At-Large Candidate Questionnaire Responses

Listed in Order of Submission

Chander Jayaraman (I) – Fair Elections, 502 donors (412 DC), Ward 6 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was against Initiative 77 and did not have a problem with the repeal (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • No
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • We need to look to the fees that businesses pay to the Business Improvement Districts, which are spending less on certain programs now due to the pandemic. Let’s pool a portion of those taxes citywide and use them to make additional grants and/or low-interest loans to restaurants, bars, and other small businesses, which in turn benefits workers who can then be rehired.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 7
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• Q: In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I am a small biz owner & ANC commissioner with a track record of helping restaurants & bars in ANC6B succeed. I am a True Independent who has a pragmatic approach to legislation, & I’m committed to making it easier for small businesses to succeed in DC.
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Rose’s Luxury
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • The Pug
• Quote from Barred in DC reader/follower
  • “I’m voting for him because as a Hill resident I’ve seen him successfully bridge the divide between businesses and residents in a respectful manner that satisfy most”

Marya Pickering (R) – 80 donors (64 DC), Ward 3 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Good idea; as a former waitress, I always made more than the minimum wage in tips.  Initiative 77 — like many liberal ideas — is well-intentioned but will hurt small restaurants and their staff in the long run. [entered own info]
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • No
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • (1) Follow lead of neighboring jurisdictions to re-open as quickly as possible; (2) insurance relief from COVID-19 related liabilities; (3) increased payouts from business interruption insurance; (4) rent moratorium/tax abatement/delay in sales tax payments; (5) new long-term recovery loans
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 3
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow lead of neighboring jurisdictions
• Q: In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • No more business as usual.” Let’s bring true diversity of ideas and prudent management to the DC Council. As a former small business owner, contract management professional with an MBA degree, and government employee, I am the best qualified candidate to effect positive change
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • DeCarlo’s and the cafe at the Museum of the American Indian
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Hawk & Dove

Monica Palacio (I) – Fair Elections, 504 donors (419 DC), Ward 4 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was for I 77 and thought that was wrong (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • No
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • I propose providing long-term assistance to the restaurant and bar industry through grants and loans so that businesses survive extended closures and adapt and reinvent services. I will ensure funds are timely and accessible to businesses and delivery safety net services that will help all workers in the industry have a place to live, keep food on the table and pay their bills.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 8
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I am a Civil Rights lawyer, community organizer, advocate and mom who has dedicated 30 years to public service in DC. A vote for me is a vote to help save lives and protect families, and to elect the first Latina to the DC Council. Together, we can build stronger communities all over the District.
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Mezcalero
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • DC Reynolds, I was sad to hear of their closure, so Jojo R&B is 2nd
• Quote from Barred in DC reader/follower
  • I support Mónica Palacio because I have seen how much she has worked for the rights of some of the most vulnerable communities in DC, like the LGBTQ and immigrant communities. We need a leader like her in Council.

Marcus Goodwin (I) – 1,527 Donors (1,011 DC), Ward 4 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was against Initiative 77 and did not have a problem with the repeal (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • No
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • A rent and lease District-backed bond assistance program. One part to help with business operators who are struggling to make rent payments. And one for service workers displaced by the pandemic. Both aspects to be repaid at a graduated rate over time with low interest rates.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 8
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I will fight to increase home ownership opportunities for historically disenfranchised residents, expand vocational training to create more good-paying jobs, support our local businesses, and create universal after school programs for DC students.
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • HalfSmoke
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Marvin
• Quote from Barred in DC reader/follower
  • “In a time when DC’s small businesses are in danger of being forced to close and may never return, strong business leadership is needed in the Council to help our beloved local economy. The success of the District’s social community is built on small businesses. Marcus Goodwin is best suited to save them.”

Ed Lazere (I) – Fair Elections, 2,077 Donors (1,700 DC), Ward 5 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was for Initiative 77 and thought the repeal was wrong (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • Yes
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • I’m eager to keep restaurants and other small businesses that serve our neighborhoods and communities. When I talk with small business owners the largest issue I hear about is paying rent. Some landlords are negotiating and some are not. I would permanently prohibit landlords from evicting small business tenants if they lost income in the pandemic. That would force all commercial landlords to negotiate reduced rents with their tenants. I would back that up with a landlord relief fund to support any small landlord who can show they are suffering extreme hardship as a result.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 4
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I spent 20 yrs at @dcfpi digging into DC’s budget & building coalitions across DC to fight for big wins, like more $ for high-poverty schools & paid sick time for all workers in DC. I’ve been endorsed by AGKarl Racine, 3 councilmembers & 30 progressive orgs. See dcvoterguide.com
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Masala Story – Great Indian food in Brookland
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Brookland Pint
• Quotes from Barred in DC readers/followers
  • “he’s doing the work to get the grassroots support behind and modeling a different type of male leadership: humble, thoughtful, and gentle strength. He fights for the will of the people and including working folks in the political conversation. He believes that no one is free until everyone is free, and he puts money where his mouth is.“
  • “As the Director of DC’s top progressive think tank, he helped lead and win fights for a $15 minimum wage, paid family and medical leave, investments in affordable housing, expanded access to health care, ethics reforms, and more.“
  • “I am supporting Ed Lazere because he’s running a campaign dedicated to improving the lives of everyday DC residents — not wealthy real estate developers and special interests. His policies would make it easier for us to succeed and thrive. He’s the true pro-worker candidate.“

Christina Henderson (I), Fair Elections, 1,043 Donors (748 DC), Ward 4 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was for Initiative 77 and thought the repeal was wrong (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • Yes
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • I’d like to see DC create a local version of the Paycheck Protection Program until we’re able to get to Phase 4 in the reopening plan. Under the program, loans are forgiven if employee retention criteria are met by the business. We know that many businesses in the District, especially minority-owned businesses were unable to benefit from the federal PPP program. By creating a local version, we can be targeted and intentional in providing support to our businesses.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 5
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I have a commonsense approach to policymaking, embrace collaboration, & posses a tireless commitment to equity. If you’re looking for an innovative voice with experience getting things done — I’m your candidate.
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Marvin
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Satellite Room [ed. note, closed before the pandemic]
• Quotes from Barred in DC readers/followers
  • “I support Christina Henderson, who has the long and varied experience in governing that a good candidate needs, thoughtful positions that she develops based on discussions and data, and a good heart. She will get things done and look out for the whole city, not just those with means.“

Jeanné Lewis (I) – Fair Elections, 502 donors (332 DC), Ward 7 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was for Initiative 77 and thought the repeal was wrong (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • Yes
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • We can the economy going but we must implement a stronger and more consistent contact tracing infrastructure. Every eatery is not collecting information or being strict about masks. Increasing the number of volunteer testing sites and participation will also be important to ensure asymptomatic people are aware they have the virus and remain vigilant.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 6
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I want to center the experiences of people, not numbers on the spreadsheet, and offer creative solutions that hold to our vision for a DC that works for everyone. It’s time we make decisions that make a difference. That’s why I’m asking for your vote on Nov 3rd.
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Masala Art
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • JoJo’s

Alexander M. Padro (I)  – 104 donors (84 DC), Ward 6 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Was against Initiative 77 and did not have a problem with the repeal (multiple choice)
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • No
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • I am proposing reducing the collectible amount of commercial property taxes for all retail spaces that have capacity limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a Ward 2 ANC Commissioner, I was an early advocate for the residential property tax cap, which initially only applied to Ward 2, but subsequently was expanded citywide. I believe that trying to collect 100% of commercial property taxes from triple net tenants is totally irresponsible and will result in a significant number of business closures. Reducing the collectible portion of commercial property taxes to the same percentage as the square footage that is allowed to be occupied during the pandemic health emergency would reduce short term property tax collections for the city, but would provide a lifeline to struggling tenants, especially retailers and restaurants. It is better to collect a lower percentage of these taxes now than to have to have no tenants to pay any taxes later, forcing property owners to shoulder the burden of paying these taxes without revenue.Without significant action on the part of the District and federal governments, I anticipate that 50% or more of current retail tenants in DC will no longer be in operation a year from now. As a Main Street district executive director, I am in daily contact with the small, independent retailers and restaurateurs that represent the vast majority of our city’s retail tenants. I see daily the challenges these entrepreneurs, even well capitalized operators, are facing as they struggle to try to keep their doors open long enough to “get to the other side” of the pandemic. I also speak to commercial property owners struggling to strike a balance between supporting tenants they have carefully curated and paying their mortgages. As a result, I would make one of my three top priorities as an At-Large Councilmember providing relief and support to our city’s retailers and commercial property owners to ensure that post-COVID-19, DC remains a viable, sustainable and attractive place for local customers, visitors, entrepreneurs and property owners alike. The alternative, a city of neighborhoods devoid of the types of unique, independent businesses that give DC the character that attracts residents and visitors would be lost, along with the substantial commensurate tax revenue that allows the District to thrive and support its citizens
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 6
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • During 20 years as an ANC and 16 years leading Shaw Main Streets, I have been an agent of change. My campaign’s slogan is Dreams Come True, because I want to help make every DC neighborhood’s dreams come true. I want to focus on affordable housing, equitable development, and helping our small businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic.
     
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Recenty, I have most often taken out from Unconventional Diner. But other favorites include The Dabney, Convivial. Espita, Tiger Fork, and Kinship.
     
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Columbia Room and Service Bar are two of my favorites.
• Quote from Barred in DC reader/follower
  • “I think you’ll find that Alex Padro has a proven, effective track record on all these issues, over his many years of leadership in the community… I’ve seen him do that over & over again; he’s been a tireless advocate for small businesses throughout Shaw— but also, as our ANC Commish, for housing, seniors, arts, culture, and our library and parks. He seems to know DC govt inside and out, and *actually makes things happen*”
  • “110%. Nobody knows this space like Alex Padro. We need someone with experience bridging the gap between government and the realities people are facing to help navigate these crazy times.”

Joe Bishop-Henchman (L) – Ward 5 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • Supported because the ballot description misleadingly said it was a minimum wage increase for everyone
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • No
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • The temporary alcohol-to-go and sidewalk dining rules should be made permanent, and the permitting process should be greatly eased.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • 6
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • Follow the metrics
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • If elected DC Council At-Large, I promise to hold WMATA accountable for their mistakes, be a watchdog on our $16 billion dollar budget, and clear obstacles out of the way of job creation and new housing. Vote Joe Bishop-Henchman for an independent voice on the Council.
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Farmers & Distillers
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Nellie’s

Will Merrifield (I) – Fair Elections, 623 donors (495 DC), Ward 7 Resident

• Q: What did you think of the Council repealing the results of Initiative 77?
  • I do not agree with the Council overturning the will of the people. We voted, the initiative passed, and the votes should have stood as the last word on the issue.
• Q: If you were a councilmember in July 2020, would you have voted for the proposed tax increase on DC incomes above $250,000? ($250-350K 8.5 to 8.75%, $350k-$1 million 8.75 to 8.95%, over $1 million 8.95% to 9%)
  • Yes.
    • He further added “I am a firm believer in making sure every DC resident can participate in our local economy, not just certain people. That means ensuring every person in the District can access safe, affordable housing; quality, neighborhood education; free, local preventative and emergency healthcare; and stable, living-wage jobs. That means we must raise taxes on those who can afford it in order to take care of all residents.”
• Q: What is your top proposal that DC government can enact to help prevent more DC bars/restaurants from permanently closing, resulting in the loss of jobs in DC’s hospitality industry?
  • DC should provide direct capital injections for small businesses and fund a job program post pandemic. The capital injections would help stabilize small businesses and a jobs program would employ people who have lost work during the the pandemic, stabilize them and put money in their pockets that they would then spend in the local economy to jumpstart things post-pandemic.
• Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, (1 being worst, 10 being great) how do your rate Mayor Bowser’s overall job performance this year?
  • I rate her performance as a 3.
    • He further added ” Each year the Mayor and Council give away hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to private  developers to build luxury apartments that are
      displacing working class DC residents, driving up rents for small businesses and making DC too expensive to live in generally. This policy of trickle down economics has led to vast inequality in our local schools and segregated the DC. If elected, I will focus on building non-means test truly affordable housing through a social housing model, invest in strong neighborhood schools, and focus implementing a jobs program post pandemic.”
• Q: The surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland have reopened restaurants/bars to a greater extent than DC. Should DC follow suit now or should they follow the announced metrics relating to cases/spread/contact tracing?
  • I believe DC should focus on itself instead of worrying about what surrounding states have done in response to the Coronavirus. Both Virginia and Maryland have very rural areas within their states, and have to consider different factors when making their decisions to reopen businesses. I agree with the announced metrics, and am personally very cautious when it comes to protecting the health and well-being of Washingtonians.
• In 280 characters or less, why should DC voters choose you as an At-Large Councilman? I will publish this with first 280 characters only (fit in one tweet)
  • I have been a frontline fighter with people facing displacement my entire career. I have fought, and will continue to fight, with you to make sure EVERYONE has a human right to stable and safe housing, world-class local education, and accessible local healthcare. willfordc.com
• Q: What is your favorite restaurant in DC?
  • Meze
• Q: What is your favorite bar in DC?
  • Solly’s
• Quotes from Barred in DC readers/followers
  • “Merrifield’s social housing plan is transformational – it challenges segregation of DC’s neighborhoods and schools in a truly novel way. White’s winning. He doesn’t need your vote. So vote for Lazere, but help demonstrate an appetite for profound change by also voting for Will.”

Robert White (D) – 1,069 donors (766 DC), Ward 4 Resident