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Doni Crawford Nominated to Fill Vacant D.C. Council Seat
Washington,D.C. - January 20, 2026 – Doni Crawford has been nominated by D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson to fill the seat vacated by Kenyan McDuffie, who resigned to pursue a mayoral run.The nomination, announced on Monday, is expected to be voted on Tuesday morning, with Crawford anticipated to receive unanimous support and be sworn in later that afternoon.
Background and Experience
Crawford, 36, is a long-time resident of Ward 5 and a Pittsburgh native.She recently changed her political affiliation to Self-reliant in anticipation of the potential vacancy. According to Crawford, she is prepared to immediately contribute to the Council, stating, “I’m ready, day one.I know the legislative and budget processes. My work ethic speaks for itself.”
For the past four years, Crawford served as committee director for McDuffie, gaining extensive experience in the District’s legislative processes. Prior to that role, she worked at the D.C. Fiscal Policy Institute, a progressive association focused on budget, tax, and policy analysis. Before relocating to Washington D.C. in 2019, Crawford contributed to a community-based organization in Pittsburgh.
Focus on Affordable Housing
Throughout her career, Crawford has consistently focused on affordable housing initiatives. She has been involved in policy development aimed at supporting local businesses, job creation, and wealth building within communities. Notably,she participated in negotiations surrounding the Commanders stadium deal,advocating for strengthened community benefits,local hiring requirements,and accountability measures.
Commitment to Wards 7 and 8
Crawford emphasized her commitment to actively engaging with residents of Wards 7 and