DC Councilmember Trayon White faces possible expulsion vote over federal bribery charge
City Councilmember Trayon White of Washington, D.C., is facing potential expulsion from his city leadership position amid an ongoing corruption trial on alleged bribery charges. The FBI arrested White in August 2024, accusing him of accepting over $150,000 in bribes to influence the city’s contracting processes. While White has pleaded not guilty, the FBI has presented evidence showing him accepting envelopes full of cash from a bureau informant. The city council is set to vote on White’s expulsion later on Tuesday.
“This is quintessential corruption,” stated Council Chairman Phil Mendelson in a December statement. “There is only one remedy: to remove the corruption from our body. This incident has damaged the public trust necessary for government to function effectively.”
Despite the charges and evidence against him, White was re-elected to the city council in November, just three months after his arrest. His federal trial is scheduled to begin in January 2026. White remains steadfast in his plea of not guilty.
The potential expulsion of White would require a unanimous vote from the 11 other members of the city council. Public statements from councilmembers do not appear favorable for White. “Councilmember White betrayed the trust of his staff, the council, the agencies and, above all, the residents of Ward 8,” said Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie at a preliminary hearing.
Mendelson also expressed skepticism, emphasizing the importance of public trust in the government and elected officials. Other councilmembers have voiced their hope that White will resign before the council is forced to take action.
The unfolding situation involving White has sparked significant controversy and scrutiny within the D.C. political landscape. The public will be closely following the outcome of the council’s vote on White’s expulsion.
Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events. For more information and updates, follow Anders on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
