Voters in Washington, D.C. will participate in a significant mayoral election on June 16, 2026, to choose a successor to retiring Mayor Muriel Bowser. The race features socialist Councilwoman Janeese Lewis George and centrist Kenyan McDuffie as the leading candidates. The election is seen as a test of voter support for progressive policies versus more traditional approaches in a district that heavily favored Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election.
Lewis George has gained traction in early polling, leading McDuffie by 11 percentage points according to a Washington Post–Schar School poll. The candidates differ notably on issues such as business policies, affordability, and public safety. McDuffie has positioned himself as pro-business, advocating for local small businesses and proposing a “Stay in DC” fund, while Lewis George has suggested more radical changes, including universal childcare and free transportation for low-income residents.
The candidates also have contrasting views on public safety, particularly regarding a proposed youth curfew. While McDuffie supports the curfew to address rising violence, Lewis George opposes it. Both candidates have committed to defending D.C.'s home rule against federal intervention and have expressed intentions to work collaboratively with Congress.
The race has seen some controversy, including complaints filed against Lewis George’s campaign for alleged improper coordination with labor unions, which she has denied. Voters will decide between the establishment-backed McDuffie and the progressive Lewis George, with polls opening at 7 a.m. on election day.