Running in the June special election, Councilmember Crawford pledges affordability, quality education, and inclusive economic growth.

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, Councilmember Doni Crawford announced her campaign for the June 16 special election to fill the At-Large seat on the D.C. Council vacated by Kenyan McDuffie. Appointed unanimously by the Council in January, Crawford now enters the race focused on improving affordable housing, delivering quality education in every neighborhood, and growing an economy that works for everyone.

“I’m running to be a voice for those who’ve gone unheard and to build a stronger, safer, more affordable DC,” said Councilmember Crawford. “We deserve leaders who amplify underrepresented voices while also being honest about the economic realities facing the city, leading with transparency, and care for the people who call DC home. That’s the kind of leader I am and always strive to be.”

When she was appointed to the Council, Crawford walked in ready to lead on day one, bringing deep policy expertise, relationships across the Council, and a clear understanding of what families and businesses need right now. Since then, she has built a record of being an accessible, visible presence across all eight wards — listening directly to constituents and ensuring their priorities are reflected — while advancing a community safety approach rooted in stable housing, strong schools, and trust between communities and public institutions.

Crawford developed an early commitment to public service and standing up for those whose voices often go unheard. After earning her graduate degree in public affairs, she built a career focused on affordable housing, an inclusive economy, and local government solutions. Before being appointed to the Council, she served at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute and later as Legislative Director and Committee Director of the Council’s Committee on Business and Economic Development, where she helped negotiate the RFK Stadium deal with the Washington Commanders, securing a $50 million community benefits agreement and local hiring requirements.

”I believe in leading with honesty,” Councilmember Crawford continued. “I tell people what’s possible, what’s difficult, and why, because trust is how we get real results. In a District that doesn’t have the same protections as states, that looks like standing up for our communities and safeguarding our ability to govern ourselves.”

Councilmember Doni Crawford’s platform centers on:

• Housing and Affordability: Treating housing as essential infrastructure by protecting long-term investments, using public land for public good, and expanding pathways to homeownership so families can stay in DC.

• Quality Education: Investing in top-notch teachers, safe facilities, mental health support, and modern resources so families don’t feel they have to look elsewhere for their children's education.

• Inclusive Economic Growth: Supporting small businesses, prioritizing local hiring, and ensuring DC can grow and create opportunity without leaving people behind.

Media Availability: Councilmember Doni Crawford is available for interviews. To schedule, please contact Mikah Rector-Brooks at (517) 295-7115 or press@donicrawford.com