Staff Reports
Residents in Washington, D.C., recently participated in local primary elections that prominently featured issues like rising crime rates and the high cost of living. Five seats on the D.C. Council were up for election, with most incumbents securing reelection. However, Councilmember Vincent Gray's ward will have a new representative as he is retiring.
A key point of interest was the Democratic primary for Gray’s ward, which remained undecided as of early Wednesday morning. Additionally, this election marked the first time noncitizens were allowed to vote, following a new law that permits legal noncitizens who have lived in the district for over 30 days to participate in city elections.
Top four takeaways from D.C. primaries in first election allowing noncitizens to vote – Washington Examiner https://t.co/Ygi09sLLrL
— Melanie (@MellieMAGA) June 5, 2024
The new noncitizen voting law has faced opposition from congressional Republicans, who have attempted to overturn it. However, their efforts have been largely thwarted by the Democratic-controlled Senate.
In another significant race, House Delegate Eleanor Norton won her primary, positioning herself for reelection to her 19th term representing Washington, D.C., in the House. Norton, a staunch advocate for D.C. statehood, has consistently opposed House Republicans' attempts to overturn local D.C. laws.
Councilman Robert White also easily secured his reelection, defeating former comedian Rodney “Red” Grant for the at-large seat. Additionally, Councilwoman Janeese Lewis George won her reelection despite facing criticism for her stance on public safety, with opponents accusing her of being too lenient on crime amid rising crime rates in the district.
Overall, the primary elections in Washington, D.C., have underscored the city's challenges with increasing crime and the contentious debate over noncitizen voting rights, reflecting broader political tensions in the nation's capital.
