DC Councilmember Trayon White Faces Expulsion Vote Amid Federal Bribery Charges

Washington, D.C. – City Councilmember Trayon White is on the brink of possible expulsion from his position as allegations of bribery loom large following an ongoing corruption trial. The political landscape in the District is shifting as the city council prepares to vote on White’s fate later today.

Bribery Charges and Investigation Details

White, who was arrested by the FBI in August 2024, is accused of accepting over $150,000 in bribes. According to federal investigators, these bribes were intended to manipulate the city’s contracting processes. Evidence gathered during the investigation reportedly includes video footage of White accepting cash payments from a known informant.

Council’s Response to Allegations

The upcoming vote on White’s expulsion is seen as crucial for restoring public trust in the council’s integrity. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson addressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is quintessential corruption. There is only one remedy: to remove the corruption from our body. This incident has damaged the public trust necessary for government to function well.” Mendelson’s comments echo a broader sentiment shared among council members about the need for accountability.

Re-Election Despite Criminal Charges

Despite the serious allegations against him, Trayon White secured re-election to the city council in November, just three months post-arrest. His federal trial is set to commence in January 2026, and White maintains his innocence, having pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Public Reactions and Councilmember Statements

Following his re-election, White expressed his belief in the voters of Ward 8. He conveyed confidence during a post-election interview with WJLA, stating, “I feel confident that the people of Ward 8 have spoken. I feel like I’m going to win by a landslide but I’m still humbled and prayerful. I hope this sends a loud message to the D.C. Council about keeping the decisions in the hands of the people.” White’s re-election victory complicates the council’s decision regarding his potential expulsion.

The Path Forward: Expulsion Vote Implications

If the council moves forward with expulsion, a unanimous vote from the 11 other members will be required. Current indications suggest that support for White among his colleagues is waning. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, a fellow Democrat, expressed his disapproval, stating, “Councilmember White betrayed the trust of his staff, the council, the agencies, and, above all, the residents of Ward 8.”

Calls for Resignation

Amid the brewing controversy, some councilmembers hope that White will choose to resign voluntarily rather than face the expulsion vote. Councilmember Robert C. White Jr. remarked, “I wish he would resign. If you broke the council rules, and you know you broke the council rules, to put the council through this is something to think about.” Such resignations are viewed as necessary for maintaining the integrity of the council.

Conclusions and Next Steps

As the city council gears up for their pivotal vote on Trayon White’s expulsion, the implications extend beyond individual politics. A united front against corruption is crucial for fostering public confidence in government actions. The outcome of this vote could serve as a defining moment for the D.C. Council, potentially reshaping its future and restoring faith among its constituents.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.