DC Is Poised to Get a Democratic Socialist Mayor

Washington, DC, is poised to get a democratic socialist mayor—and a likely showdown with the White House. Janeese Lewis George won the city's Democratic primary after rival Kenyan McDuffie conceded Thursday, effectively clearing her path to succeed Mayor Muriel Bowser next year in the heavily Democratic city, Politico reports. Hours after McDuffie conceded, the AP formally called the race for Lewis George, who had led in nearly every ward since Tuesday's vote. McDuffie said he called to congratulate her and wished her well in November's general election, where she's not expected to face a serious challenge.

The 38-year-old, a third-generation Washingtonian and Ward 4 councilmember, ran on a staunchly progressive platform: universal child care, social housing, and a public-safety overhaul built around community programs and nonpolice responses. She has vowed to reverse DC's cooperation with federal immigration authorities and resist any renewed attempt by President Trump to assert control over the Metropolitan Police Department.

• At a press conference Thursday, she said she hoped to work with Trump's administration, "as every mayor has had to work with any president of the United States, no matter their party," but said she would fight actions that threaten DC residents. "We are not going to be able to stand up for our autonomy and fight for DC statehood ultimately, by just complying in advance," she said. "I have also been very clear that I will work with anyone including the president for the best interest of DC residents."

Trump has already signaled displeasure. When he was asked about the possibility of Lewis George becoming mayor, he said he "wouldn't like it," adding, "Maybe we'll take back Washington, run it on a federal basis. We won't put up with it. We're not gonna lose our businesses." NBC News reports that in a statement responding to Trump's remarks, she said, "Threatening Home Rule because you do not like how residents vote is an attack on democracy itself. The people of DC elect the mayor of DC. And they want someone who will stand up to Donald Trump."

• This story has been updated with new developments.