DC Endorsements

DC needs leaders who will side with our communities, not this regime. A number of key seats in DC will be up for election in 2026, including Mayor, Delegate to the U.S. House, and more. As attacks on DC increase, we need leaders in these positions who will be outspoken champions for DC’s rights and the people here.

In recognition of this, Free DC’s Election Committee will run a formal candidate endorsement process for DC’s 2026 campaign cycle. This page includes all the information you need to know about this process and how to participate.

Process + Criteria

Elections Committee

In October 2025, Free DC opened nominations for an inaugural Elections Committee. This Committee is responsible for developing the process for our electoral endorsements for priority races, and facilitating candidate and community participation in that process. In December, we announced the seven members of this Committee. These Committee members have led the work to create the materials and process outlined here.

Election Committee Process

Free DC’s DC endorsements will be based on three factors:

  • A Candidate Questionnaire, which will be scored by the members of the Elections Committee (50%)

  • A Candidate Forum, which will include a straw poll at the end (20%)

  • Community Voting, which will be open to DC residents who have completed our Campaign Orientation. Anyone who completes a Campaign Orientation by March 14, 2026 will be eligible to participate in the vote (30%)

The Election Committee is committed to making our endorsements process for priority races transparent and participatory. See the full details of our process and considerations for endorsement.

Priority Races

The Elections Committee decided to run endorsement processes for two races that are most closely related to our work: DC Mayor and Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Free DC may consider additional endorsements at a later date.

Candidate Questionnaires

All candidates in our priority races were invited to complete a Candidate Questionnaire to detail their their positions on protecting Home Rule and countering federal attacks. The following are their responses.

Candidates for DC Mayor

Candidates for Delegate to the U.S. House

Candidate Forum

Free DC’s Candidate Forum will take place on Saturday, March 14 starting at 1:00 PM. Food, childcare, ASL interpretation, and Spanish translation will be provided.

Register