President Donald Trump mentioned the idea of the federal government taking control of Washington, D.C., if Janeese Lewis George, who is leading in the Democratic primary polls, wins the city’s mayoral race this year. This statement comes during a time when Trump’s interactions with D.C., a largely Democratic district, have often been contentious, especially concerning matters like immigration and public safety.
Washington, D.C. is notably liberal, with Trump receiving less than 7% of the vote there in the 2024 election. Whoever wins the Democratic primary on June 16 is, therefore, likely to win the general election in the district.
When asked about the race, Trump expressed his discontent with the prospect of Lewis George winning. He remarked about possibly taking back Washington and managing it on a federal basis, while asserting that Washington is currently a safe and appealing location.
D.C. mayoral candidates have responded critically to Trump’s comments, emphasizing the importance of local governance and self-determination.
D.C. Mayoral Candidates Rebuke Trump’s Remarks
Several mayoral candidates in Washington, D.C. voiced their opposition to Trump’s remarks.
Rini Sampath, a cybersecurity director, expressed her concern over Trump’s potential interference in local elections. She stressed the importance of resisting any federal takeover of the city, highlighting D.C.’s history as a majority-Black city that has been excluded from full democracy for decades.
Ernest Johnson, head of the nonprofit Friends of the Frank Reeves Center, emphasized the importance of Washington, D.C. residents maintaining control over their city and criticized local leaders who fail to protect the city’s autonomy. He singled out candidates Lewis George and Kenyan McDuffie, arguing they have not effectively safeguarded D.C.’s independence and safety.
Hope Solomon, with experience in national security, criticized candidates reluctant to engage with the current administration. She pointed out the necessity of having a mayor willing to negotiate and tackle pressing issues, including the current budget crisis.
Janeese Lewis George’s Polling Lead
Janeese Lewis George is leading in the two polls conducted for the Democratic primary. This year’s election features a ranked-choice voting system. Voters rank candidates by preference, and if no one secures a majority, the candidate with the least votes is eliminated, redistributing their votes until someone achieves a majority.
- Washington Post/George Mason University (May 27-June 1; 836 likely Democratic voters): Lewis George at 36%, Kenyan McDuffie at 25%, Vincent Orange at 4%, Gary Goodweather at 3%, Rini Sampath at 3%, Ernest Johnson at 1%, Hope Solomon at 1%.
- City Cast/TrueDot (May 12-17; 487 registered Democrats): Lewis George at 39%, Kenyan McDuffie at 34%, Gary Goodweather at 7%, Vincent Orange at 5%, Rini Sampath at 4%, Ernest Johnson at 3%, Hope Solomon at 2%.
The district’s strong Democratic leaning suggests the general election might not be highly contested.
What Do Prediction Markets Show?
Prediction markets also show Lewis George as the frontrunner. She holds an 89% chance on Kalshi and 87% on Polymarket. These markets let traders buy and sell contracts connected to political outcomes, providing a snapshot of trader sentiment, though they don’t guarantee future outcomes.
Who Is Janeese Lewis George?
Janeese Lewis George is a member of the Council of the District of Columbia. She graduated from Howard University with a law degree and has worked as a prosecutor in Philadelphia. Elected to the council in 2020, she identifies as a democratic socialist and has received support from the Democratic Socialists of America. If she wins, she would be the first democratic socialist to hold the mayoral position in Washington, D.C.
Trump Has Suggested Revoking DC Home Rule Before
Trump has previously voiced similar views about D.C.’s home rule, particularly regarding crime concerns. He has stated the importance of a safe and clean city. In 1973, President Richard Nixon signed the Home Rule Act, permitting D.C. residents to choose their local leaders. However, Congress still holds control over many local matters. For the agreement to be revoked, congressional action would be necessary.
Republican Senator Mike Lee and Representative Andy Ogles have proposed legislation to revoke the home rule agreement, but it has not passed in either the House or Senate.
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