DC Councilmembers react to Trayon White's arrest

WASHINGTON — Ward 8 DC Councilmember Trayon White was arrested Sunday afternoon by the FBI. Officials say the charges are bribery, stating that White used his power as a councilmember to ensure certain businesses kept their D.C. contracts. 

In return, White was allegedly being paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for keeping the contracts alive. When news of White's arrest was made, it sent shockwaves through the community and White's colleagues. DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson said he was unaware that White was even being investigated and notified the council members of the arrest.

But when the sun rose and Monday came, White's charges were made public for everyone to know. Since then, council members throughout the District have spoken out. 

DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson: 

“The federal charges against Councilmember Trayon White are deeply disturbing. Notwithstanding the principle that a person is innocent until proven guilty, the allegations, together with the government’s affidavit, are a gut punch to the public trust in the Council.

“Unfortunately, the judicial process can be slower than the public’s right to accountable government.  Accordingly, I will be following the Council’s Rules and establishing an Ad Hoc Committee to assess the situation, the evidence of wrongdoing to the extent it is available, and the questions about residency, and to make a recommendation to the full Council as soon as possible.  It is my plan to work out the details and announce the appointments this week.

“Because the federal allegations directly relate to the business of the Council’s Committee on Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs, it is in my view necessary to remove Councilmember White from that Committee until the federal charges are resolved.  Accordingly, when the Council returns on September 17th I will move to restructure that Committee by removing Mr. White from it.

“Inevitably there will be questions about how the Council can amend the law to ensure more ethical government.  Unfortunately, it is impossible to create laws that actually prevent individuals from breaking the law.  What does make a difference, however, is electing individuals who aspire to high ethical standards. 

“Citizens expect us to be the best.  Not just our best selves, but a cut above everyone else.  Regardless of whether that is achievable, the public has the right to hold us to the basic standards of trust, honesty, and integrity.”

DC Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie:

"I was greatly dismayed to learn of the arrest and allegations against Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White. The charges are shocking and, if true, are a betrayal of the trust District residents place in us as elected members of the Council of the District of Columbia.

I believe that every person accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty and has the right under our system of justice to vigorously defend themselves. We must allow the legal system to take its course and respect the principles of due process that will be involved.

I also believe that serving in public office is a privilege. It is a sacred trust that elected officials are duty-bound to protect. Therefore, in accordance with the Council's Rules, I support the establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee to consider the allegations regarding this matter.

The arrest and charges will undoubtedly impact Ward 8 residents. As such, my office will redouble our efforts to assist Ward 8 constituents with District matters, particularly community violence prevention, during this difficult period."

Ward 6 DC Councilmember Charles Allen: 

"Public service is a public trust. It requires elected officials to make decisions in the District's best interests - not our own. The charges facing CM Trayon White are shocking, extremely serious, & a profound disappointment to residents who trusted him to represent them.

While he is innocent until proven guilty in a criminal court, I agree w/ Chair Mendelson that the Council must immediately move forward with our own investigation & review process through the creation of an ad hoc committee to propose next steps, including potential expulsion.

In the interim, Councilmember T White cannot continue to chair his committee. Taking these actions will put Ward 8 first and protect the public trust and the integrity of the Council."

DC Councilmember Robert White: 

"The criminal allegations against Councilmember Trayon White are disturbing and disheartening. This news is tragic for the constituents of Ward 8. As councilmember at large, I serve the residents of Ward 8 and I will work with the rest of the Council and the Bowser administration to fill any gaps moving forward. Now more than ever, all public servants should lean in to share the work that must be done every day for our friends and constituents in Ward 8. These allegations impact everything from public trust to public safety. While Councilmember Trayon White is entitled to due process, it would be deeply troubling if public safety agencies were exploited for personal financial gain. I support the Chairman's decision to create an Ad Hoc committee to assess the situation and review Council disciplinary actions."

Ward 5 DC Councilmember Zachary Parker: 

"For nearly two years, I have served alongside Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. on the Council of the District of Columbia. During this time, I have witnessed Councilmember White's passion for his constituents and his strong advocacy for improving public safety in Ward 8 and throughout the District. Given this background, the recent arrest and allegations against him are both unexpected and deeply troubling.

I firmly believe that Councilmember White, like anyone involved in our criminal justice system, is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Nonetheless, the seriousness of the allegations against him, several DC government officials, and organizations across the city necessitates decisive action.

To address this situation and begin rebuilding trust with our constituents, I support Chairman Mendelson's plan to remove Councilmember White from his chairmanship and to establish a Council Ad Hoc Committee to thoroughly investigate these charges. This step is crucial for upholding the highest ethical standards within our institution. 

As Councilmembers, we operate in the public trust, which is essential to our ability to effectively perform our duties. Understandably, the trust of Ward 8 and District residents has been shaken by these events. While Councilmember White prepares his legal defense, the Council must ensure that these allegations do not impede our critical work in driving down crime in the District, addressing our affordable housing crisis, strengthening our local economy, and so much more.

Moving forward, my priority will be to restore and maintain the confidence of District residents. I am committed to taking any necessary actions to ensure that our institution acts swiftly and upholds the highest standards of integrity and transparency."

For the first time since his arrest, representatives from Trayon White's office issued a statement Monday night: 

"The Office of Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. acknowledges the recent criminal complaint against Councilmember White. This matter is in the hands of the appropriate legal authorities, who will oversee the necessary proceedings.

We recognize the seriousness of this matter. We want to assure Ward 8 residents and stakeholders that our office remains fully operational and steadfast in our commitment to serving the public. Our staff continues to work diligently to address the needs and concerns of our constituents, ensuring that essential services and initiatives are not disrupted.

We appreciate the continued support and understanding of the community as we navigate this situation."