“`html

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