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<h2 style="text-align: center;">The Capital Corps</h2><h4 style="text-align: center;">A New Era of Civic Service, Opportunity, and Shared Prosperity in Washington, DC</h4>Washington, DC deserves a strong civic infrastructure — a system that brings residents together to serve their communities, develop skills, and build lasting opportunity. The Capital Corps is an ambitious, citywide civic service initiative designed to do exactly that.Members of the Capital Corps commit to structured weekly service and rigorous training across specialized branches. Participants will earn education benefits, professional development, mentorship, and clear pathways into high-demand careers.This is how we build purpose, belonging, and shared prosperity across all eight wards.Download the full PDF: <a href="/capital-corps-concept-paper.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">[Capital Corps Concept Paper]</a><h4>What the Capital Corps Will Do</h4>The Capital Corps will:• Develop a skilled, civically engaged workforce • Strengthen community institutions across DC • Provide structured opportunities for youth, adults, and returning citizens • Build a culture of shared responsibility • Create clear pathways to education and employmentMembers will complete standardized training and serve in one of eight specialized branches supporting the District’s most essential systems.<h4>Eight Branches of Service</h4><ol><li>Health &amp; Medical Corps: Supports hospitals, clinics, and community health programs, including vaccination drives, wellness outreach, and telehealth assistance.</li><li>Education Corps: Helps classrooms, after-school programs, tutors, and literacy initiatives. Creates mentorship pathways for DC youth.</li><li>STEM &amp; Innovation Corps: Teaches digital literacy, robotics, coding, cybersecurity, and green technology. Supports small businesses and nonprofits with digital transformation.</li><li>Public Safety Support Corps: Partners with MPD, Fire &amp; EMS, and violence prevention programs to build trust and strengthen community-based public safety.</li><li>Elder Care Corps: Provides companionship, transportation, safety checks, and daily assistance for seniors.</li><li>Early Childhood Development Corps: Supports daycare centers, pre-K classrooms, and early learning hubs across the city.</li><li>Civic Works &amp; Infrastructure Corps: Maintains parks, green spaces, playgrounds, and community facilities. Improves neighborhood pride and the public realm.</li><li>Financial Literacy &amp; Neighborhood Equity Corps: Delivers budgeting, credit-building, entrepreneurship, and small business support. Strengthens household financial stability and neighborhood economic health.</li></ol><h4>Commitment, Flexibility, and Member Benefits</h4>Service Expectations<ul><li>8–12 hours per week or equivalent annual service</li><li>Weekly “Corps Day” for training, leadership development, and skills labs</li><li>Code of conduct and performance standards</li><li>Branch-specific training and certification opportunities</li></ul>Participation Tracks<ul><li>Part-time service (ROTC-style structure)</li><li>Full-year or gap-year commitments</li><li>After-school and youth tracks</li><li>Diversion and re-entry pathways for returning citizens</li></ul>Member Benefits<ul><li>Monthly stipends</li><li>Education credits or tuition support</li><li>Transit passes</li><li>Uniform components and identification</li><li>Mentorship, career placement, and advancement pathways</li></ul><h4>Training &amp; Education Partnership</h4>The Capital Corps will operate like a civilian service academy network.<ol><li>Foundational Training Academy: Orientation, civic leadership, CPR, digital literacy, conflict resolution.</li><li>Branch Academies: Technical skills, certifications, apprenticeships, fieldwork.</li><li>University Partnerships: UDC and partner institutions offer credit-bearing coursework tied to corps service.</li><li>Leadership Progression: Squad leaders, branch leaders, and senior Corps roles.</li></ol>This creates a pipeline of prepared, purpose-driven DC residents ready to serve and succeed.<h4>Community Impact</h4>The Capital Corps strengthens:<ul><li>Healthcare access</li><li>Education and literacy</li><li>Public safety and community trust</li><li>Senior support</li><li>Child development</li><li>Neighborhood infrastructure</li><li>Digital equity</li><li>Local business support</li></ul>Every branch delivers measurable return on investment for residents and the city.<h4>Implementation &amp; Funding Framework</h4>Phase 1: Pilot &amp; Infrastructure (Years 1–2)<ul><li>Establish office under DMPED</li><li>Launch pilot cohorts</li><li>Activate community sites and training facilities</li><li>Begin stipends, credits, and oversight</li><li>Create KPIs and evaluation metrics</li></ul>Phase 2: Expansion (Years 3–5)<ul><li>Scale all branches</li><li>Create Service Academies at UDC </li><li>Expand credit, apprenticeship, and youth pathways </li><li>Integrate with justice diversion programs </li><li>Publish annual Capital Corps Report</li></ul>Phase 3: Institutionalization (Years 6–10)<ul><li>Establish Capital Corps Trust Fund </li><li>Integrate service into scholarship and public service credit systems </li><li>Build national and international partnerships</li></ul>Funding Sources<ul><li>Reallocation of existing programs </li><li>AmeriCorps and Department of Labor grants </li><li>Trust Fund supported by property transfer tax and workforce levy </li><li>Social impact bonds </li><li>Savings from reduced recidivism and unemployment</li></ul><h4>Why This Matters</h4>Washington, DC needs more than programs — we need purpose, connection, and shared ownership of our future. The Capital Corps is an investment in residents, neighborhoods, and the civic strength our city deserves.<h5 style="text-align: center;">“Every Washingtonian deserves a place to serve, a path to grow, and a reason to stay.” — Gary Goodweather</h5>[Download →] <a href="/capital-corps-concept-paper.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">[Capital Corps Concept Paper]</a>

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<h3 style="text-align: center;">Affordability</h3><h5>affordable DC: A Housing Strategy for Production, Permanence, and Pathways to Ownership</h5>A comprehensive housing strategy to build 50,000 new homes, deliver 36,000 truly affordable units, and create permanent pathways to ownership, paired with faster permitting, stronger tenant protections, community land trusts, social housing, and targeted tax relief, funded through accountable public investment, office to housing conversions, and smart affordability reforms.<a href="/8696794d-b1e6-4fb3-bb61-289824d7a18b">[Read more→]</a><h5>FARE-FREE DC: A VISION FOR MOVEMENT, OPPORTUNITY, AND SHARED PROSPERITY</h5>A comprehensive plan to eliminate Metro fares for all DC residents — paired with investments in service reliability, frequency, and extended hours — funded through a sustainable and diverse revenue stack.<a href="/fare-free-dc">[Read more→]</a><h3 style="text-align: center;">Opportunity</h3><h5>Capital Corps: A Pathway to Belonging, Service, and Shared Prosperity</h5>A citywide civic service initiative that creates structured pathways for residents to serve their communities, gain education and job training, and build long-term careers.<a href="/3c62a8a5-487c-40ea-a711-4b5208d6c8e1">[Read more →]</a><h5>Educate DC: Every Child. Every Classroom. Every Day.</h5>A plan to get every DC student reading, cut chronic absenteeism below 25%, keep teachers in classrooms through real support and evaluation reform, and connect every student to a career pathway. Including universal dyslexia screening, expanded Safe Passages, an Advanced Technical Center in every ward, and public dashboards tracking results by school.<a href="/5e04fbaf-ad3f-403f-adbc-556b8c19fdfc">[Read more →]</a><h5>THE RISE ACT: TECHNOLOGY THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE.</h5>The most comprehensive AI and worker protection framework proposed by any city in America. When automation changes jobs, workers get 90 days notice, transition support, and a share of the gains. Every resident gets free access to AI tools at public libraries and career centers. Every student learns with AI in the classroom. Mandatory bias audits and algorithmic transparency so no one is harmed by decisions they cannot see. Grants and tax credits for businesses that adopt AI responsibly and share the benefits with their workers.<a href="/363fb98c-b817-461c-a276-5293a3656af0">[Read more →]</a><h3 style="text-align: center;">Democracy</h3><h5>DEFEND DC: PROTECT HOME RULE. EXPAND AUTONOMY. STAND WITH RESIDENTS.</h5>A comprehensive strategy to protect D.C.'s self-governance from Congressional interference — pursuing statehood through every available pathway, building a standing Home Rule defense system, protecting residents from federal overreach, and advancing Super Home Rule reforms that put D.C.'s governing authority beyond the reach of any future Congress.<a href="/bae738fc-cab1-44ba-bea7-11ae72dbeb73">[Read more →]</a><h3 style="text-align: center;">Sustainability</h3><h5>POWER DC: A VISION FOR CLEAN, AFFORDABLE, AND RELIABLE ENERGY</h5>A two-track plan to lower energy costs, ensure reliability, and prepare DC for full electrification — deploying proven technologies like solar, bio-gas, geothermal, sewer heat recovery, and virtual power plants now, while building the clean firm power backbone for tomorrow.<a style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);" href="/5a833174-cf8d-4be5-82bd-953db2905326">[Read more →]</a><h5>Rat-free dc: ADDRESSING D.C.'S "RAT BABY BOOM"</h5>A three-part plan to tackle D.C.'s rodent crisis through reorganized city services, expanded prevention measures like rat-proof trashcans and fertility control programs, and community engagement through a new "Rat Block Captain" program.<a style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);" href="/e1ca92c9-0259-4f55-9be3-55ae764d80b0">[Read more →]</a>

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<h2 style="text-align: center">POLICY &amp; PLANS</h2><h5 style="text-align: center">Real solutions to move Washington, DC forward</h5>This campaign is built on more than ideas — it is built on plans. Washingtonians deserve leaders who are prepared to govern, ready to implement, and serious about delivering results. This page houses our full policy proposals, concept papers, and detailed plans for the next decade of opportunity, safety, and shared prosperity in the District.Each policy is grounded in data, shaped by lived experience, and designed to create lasting impact across all eight wards.Explore the plans that will guide our work.

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Washington, DC works best when leadership shows up, listens, and delivers consistently.I'm Gary Goodweather. I live and work here, and I've spent my career building organizations, managing complex operations, and training people to deliver results people can actually see.This campaign isn't about debate or ideology. Its about outcomes people can feel:1. Kids learning early2. Neighborhoods people feel safe in3. Families able to afford to stay4. City services that respect residents' timeThat's what a city that works looks like - and that's the standard guiding this campaign.DC Lives Here. Expect More.

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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Educate DC</h2><h4 style="text-align: center;">Every Child. Every Classroom. Every Day.</h4>Washington, DC, has everything it needs to lead the nation in public education — the resources, the talent, the families who show up every day believing this city can do better. A Goodweather administration makes that belief real. Every student accounted for. Every child reading by third grade. Every teacher supported. Every neighborhood connected to opportunity.DC spends more than $24,000 per student, among the highest in the country. And yet 62% of our students cannot read at grade level. 40% miss at least a month of school every year. 1 in 6 teachers leave the system every single year. The money is there. The results are not. That is a leadership failure, and it ends with this administration.Download PDF: [<a href="/policy-education-core-one-pager.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Educate DC One-Pager</a>]<h3>The Education Crisis</h3>The numbers tell the story:<ul><li>62% — of DC students cannot read at grade level</li><li>40% — of DC students are missing at least a month of school every year</li><li>1 in 6 — DC teachers leave the system every single year</li><li>18,000+ — uninvestigated truancy reports in a single year</li><li>57.6% — of DC high school students are chronically absent</li><li>91% — of DC students with disabilities are not meeting grade-level expectations in reading. </li><li>More than half — of DC students surveyed reported feeling unsafe traveling to and from school (Office of the Student Advocate, Student Safety Report, SY 2023–24)</li><li>92% — of DC students never received high-impact tutoring last year — even though the program is proven to close achievement gaps. </li></ul>These are not abstract numbers. They represent a child with dyslexia who has never been screened, a student who stays home because the walk to school does not feel safe, a family that cannot afford the tutor their child needs, a kid with a disability whose progress no one is tracking, a teacher who left mid-year because they burnt out due to lack of support. <h3>Every Student Accounted For</h3>When students are in the building, everything else becomes possible. When they are not, nothing else matters. DC's chronic absenteeism rate — 40% districtwide, nearly 58% in high schools — represents a system that has lost track of its own students. A Goodweather administration treats attendance as the foundation and builds systems that make showing up easier, safer, and expected.<ul><li>Real-time attendance tracking so struggling students are identified in weeks, not months. Right now, DC compiles attendance data on long timelines that make early intervention nearly impossible. We will implement early warning systems in every school so counselors, families, and mentors can respond before a kid disappears from the rolls.</li><li>Expand Safe Passages so students have safe, supervised walking routes to school. The current Safe Passages program puts trained adults along high-traffic routes in the morning and afternoon, offering conflict resolution and a visible safety presence. It works. We will expand it to every school with chronic absenteeism above 20%.</li><li>Scale ONSE Leadership Academy to more schools — mentors, not monitors. The Leadership Academy pairs students struggling with attendance, behavior, and academics with trained mentors who provide case management and long-term support. </li><li>Give principals the flexibility to spend support funding where their students need it most. Right now, there is no transparency over how at-risk funding is used, and principals have limited authority to direct dollars to the interventions their specific communities need. We will change that. Principals know their schools and their students better than any central office formula.</li><li>Fare-Free DC transit so getting to school is never a barrier. Transportation is one of the most commonly cited reasons for student absence — especially in Wards 7 and 8, where students travel the longest distances to reach schools across the city. Fare-Free DC removes that obstacle entirely.</li></ul><h3>Every Child Reads</h3>Through third grade, students learn to read. After third grade, students read to learn. A child who cannot read proficiently by third grade is four times more likely to drop out of high school. In DC, 62% of students are not reading at grade level. That is not just a statistic, it is a crisis that determines whether a generation of DC kids has access to opportunity or not.Mississippi proved this transformation is possible. In 2013, Mississippi was ranked dead last in the country in reading. They implemented mandatory early screening, evidence-based reading instruction, Individual Reading Plans for struggling students, and a 3rd grade reading checkpoint with intensive support. By 2019, Mississippi posted the largest reading gains of any state in the country — a 10-point jump on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. DC has more resources, more talent, and more reason to lead. We will.<ul><li>Teach reading the way the research says works — phonics, practice, and comprehension in every school. The Science of Reading is not a theory. It is the evidence base built over decades of cognitive science research showing how children actually learn to decode and understand text. Every DC school will implement Science of Reading-aligned curriculum, and every early literacy teacher will be trained in evidence-based instruction.</li><li>Screen every K–3 student for reading struggles multiple times per year so no one falls behind unnoticed. Universal screening catches deficits before a child has spent years struggling silently. We will require at least two screenings per year for every student in kindergarten through third grade.</li><li>Screen every student for dyslexia by 1st grade and provide free 1-on-1 tutoring through 12th grade. Dyslexia affects roughly 1 in 5 students. Most are never identified. We will implement universal dyslexia screening before second grade and guarantee free, specialized tutoring from diagnosis through graduation.</li><li>3rd grade reading checkpoint to make sure every struggling reader gets an Individual Reading Plan, summer support, and free tutoring before they fall further behind. Every student who does not meet the reading benchmark receives an Individual Reading Plan within 10 days, parent notification, a summer reading program, and access to one-on-one tutoring. Multiple retest opportunities. Good-cause exemptions for English language learners, students with IEPs, and students already receiving long-term intervention. The goal is not to hold kids back. The goal is to stop sending kids forward without the skills they need to succeed.</li></ul><h3>Keep Our Teachers</h3>You cannot build a world-class school system while losing 1 in 6 teachers every year. Teacher turnover in DC is not a mystery but is the predictable result of an evaluation system teachers have no voice in, a support structure that leaves new educators to sink or swim, and a pipeline that does not invest in developing DC's own.<ul><li>Reform DC's teacher evaluation system with real teacher input — and restore the right to bargain over how teachers are evaluated. IMPACT was designed without meaningful teacher involvement. Educators deserve a voice in how they are assessed. We will bring teachers to the table in reforming the evaluation framework, and we will restore the right to collectively bargain over evaluation criteria — a right that was stripped away and has never been restored.</li><li>Multi-year mentorship for every new DC teacher. The highest-attrition period for teachers is the first three years. One-day orientations and occasional check-ins are not mentorship. We will pair every new DC teacher with an experienced mentor for their first three years, with structured support, classroom observation, and protected planning time.</li><li>Green card sponsorship protecting international educators from losing their classrooms. DC recruits talented educators from around the world, then leaves them vulnerable to visa uncertainty that forces them out of the profession. We will establish a green card sponsorship program to protect these teachers and the students who depend on them.</li><li>"Grow Your Own" pipeline producing DC-raised, DC-trained teachers — including a pathway for classroom aides to become licensed teachers. The strongest teacher pipeline starts at home. We will partner with UDC, Howard, American, and Georgetown to create a pipeline from DC classrooms back to DC classrooms — recruiting high school students into education pathways, funding tuition support for DC residents pursuing teaching credentials, and creating a structured pathway for classroom aides and paraprofessionals to earn their teaching licenses while they work.</li><li>Full-time nurse and mental health clinician in every school — independent of MPD, with more counselors per student. Students dealing with trauma, anxiety, food insecurity, or health crises need professional support available every day. We will fund a full-time nurse and a full-time mental health clinician in every DCPS and public charter school — with mental health services fully independent of law enforcement.</li></ul><h3>From Pre-K to Career</h3>Education does not start at kindergarten, and it does not end at twelfth grade. DC's youngest residents need quality early learning. DC's students need pathways that connect school to career, not just school to more school. A Goodweather administration builds the complete pipeline.<ul><li>Protect and expand early childhood education — defend the Pay Equity Fund for childcare workers, expand Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 seats. DC made a historic commitment to early childhood by establishing the Pay Equity Fund, which ensures childcare workers are compensated fairly. We will protect that fund from budget cuts and expand Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 capacity so every family that wants a seat has one.</li><li>Expanded afterschool and summer programs with enrichment, tutoring, and safe spaces. Research consistently shows that the "summer slide" — academic regression during summer months — disproportionately affects lower-income students. We will expand summer learning programs with enrichment, tutoring, and structured activities in every ward. Afterschool programming will be available in every school, not just the ones with active PTAs.</li><li>Expand dual language and bilingual programs so more DC students graduate fluent in two languages. DC's diversity is an educational asset. We will expand dual language immersion and bilingual programming across the district, starting in the wards with the highest demand and the fewest existing options.</li><li>Capital Corps Youth Track: structured service, job training, and a career development plan for every student by 10th grade. The Capital Corps is DC's civic service initiative — and the Youth Track connects high school students to structured service, mentorship, job training, and career exploration. Every DC student will have a career development plan before the end of 10th grade.</li><li>Career and technical education expansion with an Advanced Technical Center in every ward. Not every student's path runs through a four-year university. DC will build or designate an Advanced Technical Center in every ward — offering certifications, apprenticeship connections, and industry-partnered training in healthcare, technology, construction, and skilled trades. Every pathway leads somewhere.</li></ul><h3>Why This Matters</h3>This is not about spending more money. DC already spends more per student than nearly any city in the country. This is about whether the money produces results.When a child misses a month of school and nobody intervenes for six months, that is a system failure. When a student reaches fourth grade unable to read and has never been screened for dyslexia, that is a policy choice. When a talented teacher leaves DC because the evaluation system never asked for her input and the mentorship program never materialized, that is a leadership failure.Educate DC is built on a simple premise: the solutions are known, the resources exist, and the only thing missing is the will to execute. Mississippi proved that a commitment to evidence-based literacy instruction, universal screening, and early intervention can transform outcomes in under a decade. <h5 style="text-align: center;">"Every child in this city deserves a school that works, a teacher who stays, and a future that is not determined by their zip code. That is what a Goodweather administration builds." — Gary Goodweather</h5><h3>What We Will Accomplish</h3><ul><li>3rd grade reading proficiency above 50% — up from 38% today</li><li>Chronic absenteeism below 25% districtwide — down from 40%</li><li>Full-time nurse and mental health clinician in every school</li><li>An Advanced Technical Center in every ward</li><li>Public dashboards tracking attendance, literacy, and teacher retention by school</li></ul><h3>Common Questions</h3>"DC already spends $24,000 per student. How is more spending the answer?"It is not. This plan does not require a significant increase in per-student spending. The problem is not the amount — it is the execution. Educate DC redirects existing resources toward evidence-based interventions with proven track records: universal reading screening, early warning systems for attendance, structured teacher mentorship, and career pathway infrastructure. The money is there. The strategy has not been."The 3rd grade reading checkpoint — is that holding kids back?"No. The 3rd grade checkpoint is an intervention trigger, not a punishment. Every student who does not meet the benchmark receives an Individual Reading Plan, parent notification within 10 days, summer reading support, and access to free one-on-one tutoring. There are multiple retest windows and good-cause exemptions for English language learners, students with IEPs, and those already receiving long-term intervention. Mississippi uses this model. It produced the largest NAEP reading gains in the country."How do you reform IMPACT without weakening accountability?"Teacher accountability and teacher voice are not opposites. The current IMPACT system was designed without meaningful teacher input, and teachers have no right to bargain over how they are evaluated. Reform means bringing teachers to the table — not eliminating high standards. The goal is an evaluation system that teachers trust because they helped build it, with metrics that reflect the full scope of what good teaching looks like."Can you really get chronic absenteeism below 25%?"DC's chronic absenteeism rate is 40% districtwide and nearly 58% in high schools. The evidence base for reducing absenteeism is strong: early warning systems, mentorship programs, safe walking routes, family engagement, and removing transportation barriers all have demonstrated impact. Fare-Free DC alone addresses one of the most commonly cited barriers to attendance. A 15-point reduction over four years is ambitious. It is also achievable if every tool is deployed — which is what this plan does."Where does the 62% reading figure come from?"DC's own standardized assessment data. In the most recent PARCC/DC-CAS results, only 38% of DC students tested as proficient in English Language Arts. That means 62% are below grade level. The figure is consistent across multiple years of reporting."What about charter schools?"Educate DC applies to all DC public schools — DCPS and public charter schools. Universal reading screening, dyslexia identification, mental health staffing, and career pathway access benefit every student regardless of what building they learn in. The Career Technical Centers will serve students from both sectors. The public dashboards will report outcomes for both."This plan mentions Fare-Free DC and Capital Corps. Are those real?"Yes. Fare-Free DC is a fully budgeted transit policy with a detailed implementation plan, 13 identified revenue sources, and a phased rollout. Capital Corps is a citywide civic service initiative with an eight-branch structure and a Youth Track specifically designed for high school students. Both are standalone Goodweather administration policies that reinforce the education agenda. More info on both is available at <a href="https://www.goodweatherfordc.com/policy-plans#">goodweatherfordc.com/policy-plans</a><h5 style="text-align: center;">"DC's children do not need another blue-ribbon commission. They need schools that work, teachers who stay, and leaders who measure themselves by results. We should Expect more for our children." </h5><h5 style="text-align: center;">— Gary Goodweather</h5>#EducateDC #GoodweatherForMayor #ExpectMore #DCLivesHere

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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Beneath the Capital: Addressing D.C.'s "Rat Baby Boom"</h2><h4 style="text-align: center;">A Coordinated Citywide Response to D.C.'s Growing Rat Crisis</h4>According to public complaints and municipal inspection reports, Washington, D.C. is experiencing one of the fastest-growing rat populations worldwide. Over the last decade, rat sightings have increased 12.5-fold — roughly a 1,150% surge — signaling a sustained "rat boom" across the city. While this growth accelerated during the pandemic, driven by shifts in waste generation and reduced street activity, the underlying trend reflects a broader expansion of the rat population that now demands a coordinated citywide response. Given the unintended consequences that poisons can have on non-target animals, including wildlife and pets, our approach prioritizes a prevention-first model aimed at stopping rats before they become established.<h4>Our Three-Step Solution</h4>Gary Goodweather's plan addresses the rat crisis through reorganized city services, expanded prevention measures, and stronger community engagement.<h4>Step 1: Revamped Services — Reorganizing the Current System</h4>• Transition oversight from DOH to DPW: Moving primary responsibility from the Department of Health to the Department of Public Works ensures clearer visibility and stronger accountability, since most effective rat-mitigation strategies fall within DPW's core operations.• Strengthen the Rodent and Vector Control Division: The division will be responsible for holding restaurants, construction sites, and public-housing authorities accountable for rodent prevention.<h4>Step 2: Prevention — Expanding Preventions and Mitigations</h4>• City-wide rat-proof trashcan mandate: Require rat-proof trashcans for all properties across D.C.• Increased trash collection frequency: More frequent pickup reduces the food sources that sustain rat populations.• Revamp the DC Rat Riddance Initiative: Expand the use of 311 service calls to treat reported areas with dry ice — a highly effective and humane method of treating burrows.• Reintroduce rat fertility control programs: Preliminary data from the Adams Morgan pilot showed a 77% reduction in the proportion of juvenile rats to adults.• Improved 311 Data-Tracking System: Enhanced monitoring of rat sighting trends throughout the city to target resources effectively.<h4>Step 3: Community Awareness — Expanding Education and Accountability</h4>• "Rat Block Captain" Program: A formal program to incentivize residents to support neighborhood rodent-control efforts by organizing alley cleanups, reporting rat sightings, and promoting compliance with rodent-proof trashcans. Participants may earn small stipends or mini-grants, with rewards offered for verified rat removal or collection.• Public awareness campaign: Help residents spot problem areas and use dashboards to track progress and hold the city and landlords accountable.<h4>Why This Matters</h4>Managing the rat crisis requires not just government action, but an active, citywide commitment to cleaner, safer neighborhoods. By shifting primary responsibility to DPW, expanding prevention measures, and engaging residents alongside city services, D.C. can build the shared vigilance needed for timely treatment and long-term prevention.<h5 style="text-align: center;">"Every neighborhood deserves to be free from the health hazards and quality-of-life impacts of rodent infestation. This plan brings together government accountability and community action to take back our alleys, our blocks, and our city." — Gary Goodweather</h5>

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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Defend DC</h2><h4 style="text-align: center;">Protect Home Rule. Expand Autonomy. Stand with Residents.</h4>Washington, D.C.'s right to self-governance is under direct threat. Congress continues to override local laws, attach policy riders to our budget, and threaten the autonomy that residents depend on every day.Defend DC is a comprehensive strategy to protect Home Rule, expand D.C.'s autonomy, and stand with residents against federal overreach. We pursue statehood as the ultimate goal while building protections that work right now — so that no single Congress can undo what D.C. residents have built.Download PDF: <a href="/policy-defend-dc-one-pager-new.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">[Defend DC One-Pager]</a><h3>The Bottom Line</h3><ul><li>Goal: Full statehood while securing concrete gains that expand autonomy now</li><li>Defense: A standing Home Rule defense system across the Mayor's office, Council, and AG</li><li>Residents First: D.C. agencies will not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement absent a judicial warrant</li><li>Bridge: Super Home Rule — constitutional and legislative reforms that put self-governance beyond the reach of any future Congress</li></ul><h3>The Threat to Self-Governance</h3><ul><li>700,000+ — D.C. residents with zero voting members of Congress</li><li>Every law — subject to a 30-day Congressional review period before taking effect</li><li>100% locally funded — D.C.'s operating budget uses zero federal dollars, yet Congress still approves it</li><li>0 control — over D.C.'s National Guard. The Mayor has no peacetime command authority.</li><li>$42 billion+ — in non-resident income earned in D.C. annually that Congress prohibits the city from taxing</li><li>200+ — policy riders Congress has attached to D.C.'s budget, blocking everything from marijuana regulation to reproductive healthcare</li></ul>D.C.'s population exceeds Wyoming and Vermont. D.C. residents pay more in federal taxes per capita than residents of any state. The District funds its own schools, its own police, its own fire department, and its own infrastructure — entirely with local tax dollars. And yet Congress retains the power to override any law, block any budget item, and intervene in local governance at will.This is not a partisan issue. It is a democratic one.<h3>DC Statehood</h3>Our administration will pursue full representation and expanded self-governance through every available legal, legislative, and constitutional pathway.<ul><li>Support D.C. statehood as the most direct path to full representation while pursuing gains that expand autonomy now</li><li>Build a national coalition to raise the political cost of blocking statehood</li><li>Advocate for limits on the President's authority to federalize MPD</li><li>Use every executive and legislative tool available to expand D.C.'s governing authority now</li></ul>Statehood is the clearest path to full representation — two senators, a voting House member, and complete self-governance. But statehood requires Congressional action, and Congress has shown no urgency. A Goodweather administration will not wait. We will pursue every available mechanism to expand autonomy while building the political conditions that make statehood inevitable.<h3>Defending Home Rule</h3>Home Rule is only as strong as the people elected to protect it. We will litigate when necessary, build coalitions to raise the political cost of interference, and prepare legal and media strategies before threats materialize.<ul><li>Home Rule defense coordination across Mayor, Council, and AG to monitor and respond to Congressional threats in real time</li><li>Partnerships with nationwide Statehood advocates, ACLU, NAACP, D.C. Appleseed, and allied organizations</li><li>Response plans prepared before bills that may draw backlash</li><li>Expand Home Rule curricula in schools and public awareness campaigns so every D.C. resident understands what's at stake</li><li>Exemplary budget management to eliminate any pretext for Congressional intervention</li></ul>The 2024 criminal code override happened because D.C. was caught flat-footed. A Goodweather administration builds the infrastructure so that never happens again — monitoring Congressional activity, preparing legal challenges, and mobilizing public pressure before threats become law.<h3>Protecting Residents from Federal Overreach</h3>D.C. government will stand between federal enforcement agencies and the residents who live here. Our city agencies serve residents — not federal immigration enforcement, not political agendas imposed from outside.<ul><li>Prohibit D.C. agencies from cooperating with ICE detainers absent a judicial warrant</li><li>Ensure no resident is afraid to call the police, send their child to school, visit a hospital, or access city services because of their immigration status</li><li>Defend local voting legislation against Congressional override as a Home Rule issue</li><li>Rapid-response economic support when federal workforce disruptions impact D.C.</li><li>Oppose any federal effort to restrict library materials or school curricula</li><li>Expand D.C. municipal ID — accessible, affordable, widely accepted, with privacy protections</li></ul>Federal workforce reductions are already destabilizing D.C.'s economy. Defend DC ensures the city has the tools, the legal strategy, and the political will to protect residents regardless of what happens on Capitol Hill.<h3>Super Home Rule</h3>Statehood is the goal. Super Home Rule ensures we're never one Congress away from losing what we've gained.Through constitutional and legislative reforms, Congress would delegate permanent self-governing authority to D.C. — the same way Home Rule was granted in 1973, but broader, deeper, and harder to reverse.<ul><li>Legislative independence: Congress could no longer review or overturn D.C. laws</li><li>Full budget control: No more riders, vetoes, or restrictions on how D.C. spends its own revenue</li><li>Court authority: A local court system with D.C.-appointed judges</li><li>National Guard command: Peacetime control transfers to the Mayor</li><li>Commuter tax power: Repeal the ban on taxing non-resident income earned in D.C.</li><li>Government restructuring: D.C. gains the ability to adopt its own constitution and redesign its governance</li></ul>Super Home Rule is not a replacement for statehood. It is the floor beneath it — ensuring that the rights D.C. residents have fought for cannot be taken away by a single Congressional vote.<h3>Common Questions</h3>"Is Super Home Rule realistic?"Home Rule itself was granted by Congress through statute in 1973 — no constitutional amendment required. Super Home Rule follows the same model but expands the delegation. The strategy is to build the coalition incrementally, starting with the provisions that have broadest support — budget autonomy and legislative independence — while pursuing the full package. Some provisions may require a constitutional amendment; others can be achieved through legislation alone."Why not focus entirely on statehood?"We are pursuing statehood. Defend DC ensures that while we build toward statehood, we are also securing concrete gains that protect residents right now. Super Home Rule and statehood are complementary, not competing."Will sanctuary protections make D.C. a target for federal action?"D.C. already operates under existing sanctuary policies. Defend DC formalizes and strengthens those protections while preparing legal strategies to defend them. The alternative — cooperating with federal enforcement that targets our own residents — is unacceptable."How does this affect D.C.'s relationship with Congress?"Defend DC is built on the premise that exemplary governance removes pretexts for interference. The strategy pairs aggressive advocacy with fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability — making the case that D.C. earns the autonomy it demands.<h5 style="text-align: center;">"700,000 people live here, pay taxes here, and build their lives here. We deserve the same right to govern ourselves as any American." — Gary Goodweather</h5>#DefendDC #GoodweatherForMayor #ExpectMore #DCLivesHere

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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Power DC</h2><h3 style="text-align: center;">A Vision for Clean, Affordable, and Reliable Energy</h3>Your Pepco bill keeps climbing. Since 2023, the average DC household has seen monthly bills rise by $31, and a 17.7% supply charge increase hit in June 2025. In 2024 alone, Pepco disconnected power to nearly 12,000 DC families. Meanwhile, data center demand in Northern Virginia is driving up wholesale electricity prices for everyone in the region — including DC.DC requires a unified strategy that lowers energy costs, ensures reliability, prepares for full electrification, and expands job opportunities. Power DC delivers that strategy — deploying proven technology now while building the clean firm power backbone for tomorrow.Download PDF: [<a href="/policy-new-power-dc-one-pager.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Power DC one-pager</a>]<h4>Why Your Bill Is So High</h4>Your Pepco bill has two main parts — and DC residents are getting hit from both directions:• Supply charges (~60%): The cost of electricity itself. Pepco buys this from PJM, the regional wholesale market, and passes the cost to you. When PJM prices spike — driven by data center demand in Northern Virginia — your supply charges go up.• Distribution charges (~40%): What Pepco charges to deliver power to your home. Set by the DC Public Service Commission, which approved $123 million in rate increases for 2025-2026.Power DC attacks both problems: We generate more power locally so DC buys less from PJM's volatile wholesale market, and we hold Pepco accountable for every dollar they charge.<h4>The Two-Track Plan</h4>Power DC operates on two tracks: immediate cost reduction through proven technologies, and long-term infrastructure to ensure DC is ready for full electrification.<h4>Track 1: Immediate Cost Reduction (2027–2032)</h4>Every Track 1 technology is already operational — many right here in DC.• DC Public Building Solar: Solar on DCPS schools, DPR recreation centers, and DGS buildings — generating $8-15 million in annual savings directly to the General Fund. No upfront capital cost through Power Purchase Agreements.• Federal Community Solar: GSA partnership to use federal rooftops for community solar, delivering $5-14 million annually in Pepco bill credits directly to DC residents — especially low-income families through Solar for All.• Blue Plains Expansion: DC Water's Blue Plains already generates 10 MW of electricity and saves $20 million annually ($10M in electricity costs + $10M in reduced biosolids hauling). By partnering with DPW to divert food waste for co-digestion, we unlock millions in additional annual savings — without major capital expansion.• Matter-of-Right Geothermal: Under existing DC law, geothermal systems are already permitted in most residential zones. No BZA variance needed. They deliver 35-60% reductions in heating and cooling costs. The barrier isn't zoning — it's financing and inertia.• Sewer Heat Recovery: Wastewater maintains a constant 55-65°F year-round — a massive untapped thermal resource. The AGU Building in Dupont Circle has operated a sewer heat exchange system since 2018. DC Water is installing one at their own headquarters. We expand this to hospitals, recreation centers, schools, and government buildings for 40-60% HVAC cost reductions.• Community Virtual Power Plants (VPPs): We have options beyond building new power plants, we will turn DC's buildings and vehicles into a shared grid resource. By networking thousands of batteries — from electric school buses to residential backup systems — we create a "Virtual Power Plant" that sells power back to the grid during peak pricing events, directing profits back to DC residents, not Pepco shareholders.<h4>Track 2: Clean Firm Power Backbone (2032–2050)</h4>Meeting DC's climate commitments requires full electrification of buildings and vehicles, which will substantially increase electricity demand. Solar and wind provide clean energy but not quickly enough to reach our goals. Track 2 builds the foundation for DC's fully electrified, zero-carbon future.• Regional Clean Energy Partnerships: Long-term Power Purchase Agreements with Virginia offshore wind and regional utility-scale solar — locking in stable prices and reducing exposure to PJM wholesale market volatility for 20-30 year terms.• District-Scale Geothermal Networks: Neighborhood-level Thermal Energy Networks serving dozens or hundreds of buildings through underground thermal exchange loops. Requires new legislation (Thermal Utility Authorization Act) but delivers 40-60% reductions in heating and cooling costs at community scale.• Fusion Energy Readiness: Federal partnerships positioning DC for integration when fusion becomes commercially viable. Grid preparation, workforce development, and tracking progress with DOE and national labs.Track 2 positions DC at the forefront of next-generation clean energy — without betting the city's future on any single technology. All Track 1 investments deliver value independently.<h4>Creating DC Jobs</h4>Power DC isn't just an energy plan — it's a workforce development strategy:• Local hire and apprenticeship targets for solar, geothermal, and wastewater retrofit projects• DOES-led training pipeline with unions and community college partners• Procurement preference for DC-certified business enterprises (CBEs)<h4>The Power DC Guarantee</h4>By the end of the first term (January 2031), we will have achieved:• Solar deployed on DC public buildings, reducing government electricity costs• Federal community solar partnership delivering credits to Solar for All participants• Food waste co-digestion partnership established between DPW and DC Water• At least 2 sewer heat recovery installations operational or under construction• Matter-of-right geothermal adoption significantly increased• Thermal Utility Authorization Act passed; district geothermal pilot underway• Regional clean energy PPA negotiations initiated• VPP pilot program launched with electric school buses and residential battery participants.Quarterly public dashboards will track MW installed, energy savings achieved, Solar for All credits generated, Blue Plains performance, and emissions reduced. Transparency over false precision — we will communicate honestly about delays, challenges, and revised timelines.<h4>Why This Matters</h4>The technology exists. The economics work. Blue Plains already saves $20 million a year. The AGU Building already heats and cools with sewer water. Geothermal is already legal in most DC neighborhoods. What's been missing is the will to scale what works.<h5 style="text-align: center;">"DC's greatest asset is its people: their expertise, creativity, lived experience, and deep civic commitment. Power DC builds a clean, resilient energy system and a people-centered economic infrastructure by creating pathways for District residents to develop, deploy, and operate the next generation of energy technologies." — Gary Goodweather</h5>#PowerDC #GoodweatherForMayor #ExpectMore

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Washington, DC works best when leadership shows up, listens, and delivers consistently. I'm Gary Goodweather. I live and work here, and I'm running for mayor because this city deserves leadership focused on real outcomes - not rhetoric. DC doesn't need more debate. It needs a government that works better in people's daily lives.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/0bba2403-968f-4165-9505-a319cd8d3eec/11e819de-1a14-4138-81ed-526a8ccadb2c/11e819de-1a14-4138-81ed-526a8ccadb2c.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1920%2C1284&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="42" variant="base">For more than 30 years, I've led teams, managed complex operations, and been accountable for results. I know what it takes to run large organizations responsibly, make tough decisions, and follow through. That experience shapes how I approach public service: with discipline, transparency, and respect for the people the system is meant to serve.Before my civilian career, I served in the United States Army, commissioned in the armor branch and rose to the rank of Captain before receiving an honorable discharge in 2004. Military service taught me how to lead under pressure, work as part of a team, and take responsibility - lessons that have guided me ever since.I believe deeply in preparation and lifelong learning. I earned a B.A. in Political Science from Bucknell University and an MBA in Finance from Johns Hopkins University, strengthening my ability to manage budgets, assess tradeoffs, and build teams that deliver results.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/0bba2403-968f-4165-9505-a319cd8d3eec/a02702bc-01d6-4e65-9cf4-5673cc96dec6/a02702bc-01d6-4e65-9cf4-5673cc96dec6.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C424%2C1536%2C1297&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" variant="base">DC has been my home for more than 20 years. It's where I built my career, met my wife, and raised my two kids. I've experienced this city not as an abstract idea, but as a place where families are trying to stay, businesses are trying to grow, and neighborhoods are trying to thriveWhen we invest in our communities, support local businesses, and respect residents' time, the whole city is stronger.This campaign is about setting clear standards for how government should work - and holding ourselves accountable to them.DC Lives Here.Expect More.

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As the HillRag reports, longtime Washingtonian and former At-Large Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie has officially announced his bid for mayor of the District of Columbia, sending a clear signal that the city’s first open mayoral race in decades is fully underway. Against this backdrop of heightened civic engagement and debate over the future direction of our city, Goodweather for DC continues to emphasize a vision grounded in community needs and results-driven leadership. Gary Goodweather, an Army veteran, local business leader, and early qualifier for Fair Elections funding, remains laser-focused on addressing the everyday challenges D.C. residents face — from housing affordability and public safety to nurturing economic opportunity across all eight wards.By advocating for inclusive economic growth, protection of home rule, and community-centered policy development, Goodweather for DC is committed to building a thriving, equitable city where everyone has a fair shot at success.Click <a href="https://www.hillrag.com/2026/01/14/kenyan-mcduffie-announces-mayoral-run/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE</a> to view the full article!

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Join Gary in the Palisades! There’ll be live music from The Barn Owls, great food from Rocklands, and plenty of neighbors to connect with before the school year kicks off.I’ll be there to enjoy the fun, meet residents, and hear what matters most to you. Come say hi and bring your family and friends — let’s close out summer together! #YourCityOurVoice #GoodweatherForDC #PalisadesDC

End of Summer Bash in the Palisades!

Join us this Sunday, August 24th from 5–7 PM at Ashby &amp; 47th Streets for a community celebration.

We made history — together.Gary Goodweather for DC has officially surpassed the qualification threshold for the Fair Elections Program, a first for a new mayoral campaign in Washington, DC. This is a victory for every supporter who believed that grassroots power can still win.Now it’s time to celebrate and set our sights on the next chapter.Join Gary, the campaign team, and supporters from across the District for an evening of community, gratitude, and strategy. We’ll reflect on how far we’ve come and preview our path to victory in 2026 — powered by the people of DC.Light refreshments will be served. Dress is business casual.

Goodweather for DC: Campaign Milestone Celebration

Join Gary and the campaign team as we celebrate our historic Fair Elections qualification — an unprecedented milestone for a first-time mayoral candidate — and share what’s next for DC.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 21, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for </a><a href="mailto:DC￼anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">DC anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165 <h4 style="text-align: center">Goodweather Unveils Capital Corps: A New Era of Service for D.C.&nbsp;</h4>Civic service program will create opportunities for 5,000 residents to serve, learn, and build careersWashington, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, DC business leader, U.S. Army veteran, long-time resident, and candidate for Mayor of Washington, D.C., announced today the concept for the Capital Corps, an ambitious citywide civic service initiative that will transform how residents serve their communities while gaining education, job training, and career pathways."Every Washingtonian deserves a place to serve, a path to grow, and a reason to stay," stated Goodweather. "The Capital Corps will strengthen our communities, develop our workforce, and build a culture of shared responsibility across all eight wards."The program will operate through eight specialized service branches: Health &amp; Medical Corps, Education Corps, STEM &amp; Innovation Corps, Public Safety Support Corps, Elder Care Corps, Early Childhood Development Corps, Civic Works &amp; Infrastructure Corps, and Financial Literacy &amp; Neighborhood Equity Corps. Members will commit to weekly service hours and training and receive monthly stipends, education credits, and direct pathways to careers.Starting with 100 pilot participants in Year 1, the Capital Corps will scale to 5,000 members within a decade. Through partnerships with UDC and local universities, participants will earn college credits and professional certifications while serving. The initiative will transform underutilized buildings into training academies and service hubs.Funding will come through reallocated city programs, federal grants, and a new Capital Corps Trust Fund. By Year 10, the program is projected to operate at just $9,000 per participant annually,&nbsp; a fraction of the cost of unemployment, recidivism, and lost economic opportunity."The Capital Corps will be an investment in our greatest resource, in the talent, dedication, and potential of D.C. residents," said Goodweather. “Our administration will continue to develop solutions that create economic prosperity for every D.C. resident.”The program will provide structured pathways for returning citizens, youth through after-school tracks, and adults through part-time or gap-year commitments. As Mayor, Goodweather will establish the Capital Corps under DMPED, with the first cohort beginning service in 2027.Goodweather for DC is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer<a style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary)" href="/goodweather-capital-corps-press-release-11-21-25.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">PDF Version</a>

Goodweather introduced the Capital Corps, a citywide civic service program that will create structured pathways for Washingtonians to serve their communities, earn education and job training, and build careers across eight service branches.

Goodweather Unveils Capital Corps: A New Era of Service for D.C.

As Mayor, I will make affordability a top priority. Washington, D.C. should be a city where people can build a life, not one where the cost of living pushes families out. Too many residents are struggling with rising rents, transportation costs, and healthcare bills that make everyday life harder than it should be.Affordability means lowering the everyday costs that determine whether people can stay in the city they love. That starts with transportation, housing, and healthcare.<h3>Transportation</h3>Getting to work, school, or a doctor’s appointment should not come with another bill. Transportation is essential infrastructure, and it should work for the people who rely on it every day.Through <a href="/57d6d179-70dc-4eed-9122-15b3a845f8a6">Fare Free DC</a>, we will eliminate fares for DC residents on Metrobus and Metrorail. That means families keeping more of their paychecks and residents having the freedom to move across the city without worrying about the cost of the next ride.When transportation is affordable, opportunity becomes more accessible. People can reach jobs, education, healthcare, and community without barriers.<h3>Housing</h3>Housing is the single largest expense for most families in D.C. Yet rents keep rising while housing production slows and long time residents face growing property tax pressures.My administration will tackle the <a href="/8696794d-b1e6-4fb3-bb61-289824d7a18b">housing crisis</a> by increasing supply and protecting long term affordability. We will accelerate the construction of new homes across every ward, convert vacant office space into housing, and support permanently affordable housing through tools like community land trusts and social housing.At the same time, we will protect existing residents by lowering property tax pressure on longtime homeowners and expanding pathways to homeownership so more families can build wealth and stability in the District.<h3>Healthcare</h3>No resident should have to choose between paying rent and seeing a doctor. Healthcare costs are a growing burden for many families, especially seniors, working parents, and those without easy access to care.My administration will expand access to community based healthcare by strengthening neighborhood health clinics, supporting preventative care, and partnering with hospitals and providers to bring affordable services closer to where people live. When people can get care early and locally, families save money and our entire healthcare system works better.<h1>A City People Can Afford</h1>Affordability is about more than one policy. It is about whether people can live, work, and thrive in Washington, D.C. without constantly falling behind.When transportation is accessible, housing is stable, and healthcare is within reach, families gain the freedom to plan for the future instead of worrying about the next bill.As Mayor, I will fight to make D.C. a city that works for the people who power it every day.Because when our city is affordable, our communities grow stronger.<h5>DC Lives Here. Expect More.</h5>

Every family in DC deserves a city they can afford to live in. I will lower the cost of living by making transportation more accessible through <a href="/57d6d179-70dc-4eed-9122-15b3a845f8a6">Fare Free DC</a>, building more housing people can actually afford, and expand access to community based healthcare. Affordability should be the foundation of life in our city.

Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs.

Affordability

Join us at Anacostia Park for Community Improvement Day! This is one of the city’s biggest volunteer days of the year — and Team Goodweather will be there giving back. Together, we’ll help build outdoor classrooms, restore green space, and make a real impact in our community.

Community Improvement Day with Team Goodweather

Join us as we roll up our sleeves at Anacostia Community Improvement Day! We’ll be volunteering with neighbors to build classrooms, restore green space, and make a real difference in our community.

Community Improvement Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 27, 2026Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for DC </a><a href="mailto:anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165<h4>Goodweather Condemns Federal Killing of Minneapolis Nurse,</h4><h4>Pledges to Defend D.C. Residents from Federal Overreach </h4><h4 style="text-align: center;">Mayoral candidate outlines comprehensive protections for District residents as federal immigration enforcement turns deadly</h4> Washington, D.C. —&nbsp; Following this weekend’s fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis, mayoral candidate Gary Goodweather outlined the immediate steps he would take as Mayor to protect District residents and uphold constitutional rights. The shooting killed Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37 year old ICU nurse and U.S. citizen who was legally carrying a firearm and had no criminal record. The incident occurred Saturday morning and has raised national concerns about federal enforcement accountability and local authority. While the shooting occurred outside the District, Goodweather stressed that its implications are deeply relevant to Washington, D.C.&nbsp; “What happened this weekend should concern every city in America,” said Goodweather. “Alex Jeffrey Pretti was not a criminal. He was a nurse. If federal agents can use deadly force and then avoid local accountability elsewhere, we must be prepared to protect our residents here at home. Constitutional rights do not stop at the District line.” Goodweather, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime DC resident, emphasized that public safety and civil liberties are not competing priorities. “As Mayor, my responsibility is simple. Keep people safe. Defend their rights. And ensure that no one, including federal agents, operates above the law in Washington, DC.” <h3>As Mayor, Goodweather will take immediate action to protect District residents:</h3> <ul><li>Strengthening sanctuary protections by issuing executive orders prohibiting District agencies, including MPD, from participating in federal immigration enforcement or sharing information for immigration purposes. </li><li>Ending voluntary cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, including ICE and CBP, and barring the use of District resources for immigration enforcement activities. </li><li>Establishing a legal defense fund to provide free legal representation for District residents targeted by federal immigration enforcement, regardless of immigration status. </li><li>Designating sensitive locations as protected spaces, including schools, hospitals, houses of worship, and District government facilities, where federal immigration enforcement would be prohibited. </li><li>Launching a citywide Know Your Rights campaign to ensure residents understand their constitutional protections, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. </li></ul>Goodweather said these immediate actions are the first phase of a broader framework he will release soon outlining how a Goodweather administration will protect DC residents and defend local authority.“Washington, DC is home to more than 700,000 people who deserve leadership willing to stand up for them,” Goodweather said. “Our neighbors are not targets. Our streets are not war zones. And as Mayor, I will use every legal tool available to protect the people who call this city home.” Goodweather called on District leaders to take proactive steps now to strengthen local protections and ensure transparency and accountability in any federal enforcement activity. Goodweather for DC is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, DC.### Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer<a href="/finale.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">PDF Download</a>

Following this weekend’s fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis, mayoral candidate Gary Goodweather outlined the immediate steps he would take as Mayor to protect District residents and uphold constitutional rights.

Goodweather Condemns Federal Killing of Minneapolis Nurse

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for DC </a><a href="mailto:anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165 <h4 style="text-align: center;">Goodweather Becomes First Certified Fair Elections Mayoral Candidate</h4>Grassroots campaign qualifies for over $375,000 in public funds with support from more than 1,200 individual donorsWashington, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, DC business leader, U.S. Army veteran, long-time resident, and candidate for Mayor of Washington, D.C., today became the first candidate in the 2026 mayoral race to be certified as a Participating Candidate in the Fair Elections Program. The certification triggers over $375,000 in public funds."This milestone belongs to the more than 1,000 DC residents who believe in this campaign," stated Goodweather. "When we launched, we had no name recognition, no donor base, and no political machine. What we had was a vision for a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington—and our neighbors responded."To qualify for certification, mayoral candidates must collect at least 1,000 small-dollar contributions from District residents totaling $40,000 or more. The Goodweather campaign exceeded both thresholds, securing 1,075 qualified contributions totaling over $43,000 from DC residents. The campaign has raised over $64,000 from more than 1,200 individual donors overall."Fair Elections exists to prove that candidates who earn broad community support can compete—regardless of political or donor connections," said Goodweather. "This certification is proof that our neighbors believe a different kind of politics is possible in this city."The milestone comes as Goodweather has released detailed policy proposals addressing transit equity, civic service, and neighborhood quality of life—with additional announcements planned in the coming weeks.Gary Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer<a href="/press-goodweather-becomes-first-certified-fair-elections-mayoral-candidate.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">PDF Download</a>

Gary Goodweather today became the first candidate in the 2026 mayoral race to be certified under DC's Fair Elections Program. The certification triggers over $375,000 in public funds, backed by 1,075 qualified contributions from DC residents.

Goodweather Becomes First Certified Fair Elections Mayoral Candidate

In a recent national news article examining the risks of deploying the National Guard on crime patrols in Washington, D.C., Gary Goodweather was quoted for his perspective as both a former U.S. Army captain and a candidate for Mayor. Drawing on his military experience, Goodweather raised concerns about placing service members in roles that resemble civilian law enforcement, emphasizing that military forces are not trained to replace community-based policing. His comments underscore the need for public safety strategies that protect residents while respecting the distinct roles of the military and local law enforcement—and reflect his broader commitment to a safer, more accountable approach to public safety in the District.Click <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/dc-ambush-exposes-risks-for-national-guard-on-capital-s-crime-patrols/ar-AA1RnNvF" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE</a> to view the full article!

In a recent national news article examining the risks of deploying the National Guard on crime patrols in Washington, D.C., Gary Goodweather was quoted for his perspective as both a former U.S. Army captain and a candidate for Mayor.

Goodweather Quoted in the Wall Street Journal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 19, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for </a><a href="mailto:DC￼anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">DC anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165<h4 style="text-align: center">Goodweather: D.C. Taxpayers Deserve Better Than Stadium Subsidies</h4>$1.1B deal extends taxes for decades while city services are cut Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, the D.C. Council cast its second vote on the RFK Stadium redevelopment, and the deal still makes no sense. I would love to see the Commanders in the District, but this deal does not improve safety, education, or affordability for D.C. residents. There is no innovative investment in technology, infrastructure, or local businesses to reduce the cost of energy, food, or housing — core issues that affect everyone in the city. There is also no investment in building enduring communities through educational services or facilities, from D.C.’s youngest residents to its oldest, to help foster a truly multigenerational city where everyone can thrive.D.C. taxpayer money should be used to support the needs of its residents, both today and in the future. While D.C. aims to be business-friendly, it is extending the Ballpark Tax — renamed the Sports Facilities Fee — which was originally set to expire next year, for another 28 years. At the same time, capital projects are being cut throughout the city, yet $1.1 billion of D.C. residents' money is being spent to fund this stadium project, with no guaranteed residual income for taxpayers. It’s as if every D.C. resident is being asked to write a $1,400 check to fund the stadium, while giving away valuable public land to a team owner without even seeking meaningful community input. As your next mayor, I will make sure D.C. invests in its people — in safe neighborhoods, great schools, and vibrant communities — so everyone has a chance to prosper.Gary Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer

Gary Goodweather criticized the Council’s $1.1 billion RFK Stadium deal, calling it a “$1,400 check from every resident” with no return for taxpayers. He pledged as mayor to invest instead in safe neighborhoods, strong schools, affordable housing, and thriving local communities.

Goodweather: D.C. Taxpayers Deserve Better Than Stadium Subsidies

Join Gary at the Ward 3 &amp; 4 Family Day for great food, refreshing drinks, and community fun! Bring your family and friends to celebrate summer together before the school year begins.

Join Gary @ Ward 3 &amp; 4 Family Day

Join Gary at Ward 3 &amp; 4 Family Day for great food, refreshing drinks, and community fun! Bring your family and friends to celebrate summer together before the school year begins.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 20, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for </a><a href="mailto:DC￼anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">DC anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165<h4 style="text-align: center">Goodweather: Bowser Sells Out DC to Trump</h4>Calls Mayor “Weak, Incompetent, Complicit, and the Biggest Obstacle to Home Rule in a Generation”Washington, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, U.S. Army veteran, former National Guard member, and Democratic candidate for Mayor of Washington, D.C., blasted Mayor Muriel Bowser for a historic sellout of Home Rule.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Bowser issued an executive order welcoming federal law enforcement to remain in D.C. indefinitely. “Muriel Bowser failed to defend our city, and what is worse is that she signed away our rights,” said Goodweather. “First, she claimed crime was low, and she called federal intervention a stunt. Now she flip-flopped and codified Trump’s occupation. That’s not just weakness. That’s betrayal.”Goodweather said Bowser is now Trump’s partner in disenfranchising D.C. residents: “By embracing Trump’s takeover, Bowser handed away the only argument Senate Democrats had to defend us. And today, she doubled down, codifying Trump’s occupation into law. She has abandoned her duty to defend D.C. and joined Trump in stripping us of self-governance.”Goodweather pledged to fight every day for D.C. residents and for self-determination: “As mayor, I will never bow to federal takeover — I will fight every day to protect&nbsp; Home Rule for the people of Washington, D.C.”Gary Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer

Gary Goodweather is running for Mayor to defend D.C.’s Home Rule and stand up to federal overreach. A U.S. Army veteran and former National Guard member, Gary has been outspoken against Mayor Bowser’s decision to welcome an indefinite federal presence in the District. As mayor, he will fight every day to protect D.C.’s right to govern itself and keep public safety accountable to residents.

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Goodweather: Bowser Sells Out DC to Trump

On Saturday, September 6, at 11 AM, neighbors from every ward will gather at Malcolm X Park for the We Are All DC rally and march. This citywide event is about standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our community and making sure our voices are heard.

We Are All DC Rally

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 19, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for </a><a href="mailto:DC￼anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">DC anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165 <h3 style="text-align: center">Goodweather to Celebrate Historic Campaign Milestone</h3>First-time candidate surpasses qualification threshold for MayorWashington, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, U.S. Army veteran, business leader, and candidate for Mayor of Washington, D.C., will host a celebration tonight after shattering expectations in the District’s Fair Elections Program. His grassroots campaign has officially surpassed the donor threshold required for Fair Elections qualification — an unprecedented achievement for a first-time mayoral candidate with no prior political office.The Goodweather campaign has built a diverse and community-rooted donor coalition, driven by small-dollar contributions from every ward. This milestone positions the campaign to unlock public matching funds pending final certification from the Office of Campaign Finance.“We’re proving what is possible when a campaign is built from the ground up and powered by everyday Washingtonians,” said Goodweather. “This city deserves bold ideas, real transparency, and a Mayor who shows up for residents in every neighborhood. Tonight is about the people who made this moment possible.”The campaign will gather supporters, community members, and local leaders this evening in Dupont Circle. Members of the media are invited to attend and speak with Goodweather about the milestone, his policy priorities, and what comes next.<h3>Event Details</h3>Goodweather for DC: Campaign Celebration Date: Wednesday, November 19 Time: 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM Location: Kramer’s Bookstore &amp; Afterwords Café Address: 1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DCPress will have opportunities for interviews, photos, and B-roll throughout the event.Gary Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer

Goodweather’s grassroots campaign surpasses the Fair Elections donor threshold, marking a major milestone for a first-time mayoral candidate in DC.

Goodweather to Celebrate Historic Campaign Milestone

Washington, DC can and should lead the nation in building a city that is cleaner, healthier, and more affordable for residents. Sustainability is about improving quality of life, lowering everyday costs, and strengthening communities across every ward. Rising energy bills, transportation costs, and limited access to fresh food make daily life harder for too many families.My approach to sustainability is practical and people centered. By investing in clean energy, innovative food systems, and resilient infrastructure, we can reduce costs, create jobs, and build a healthier future for Washingtonians.<h1>Clean Energy and Affordability</h1>Energy costs are rising for DC families. Since 2023, the average household Pepco bill has increased significantly, and thousands of families face the risk of disconnection each year. DC needs a unified strategy that lowers costs while building a cleaner energy system.Through <a href="/5a833174-cf8d-4be5-82bd-953db2905326">Power DC</a>, my administration will deploy proven technologies that reduce electricity costs today while preparing the District for a fully electrified future. This includes expanding solar installations on public buildings, partnering with federal agencies to create community solar programs that provide bill credits to residents, and scaling innovative systems like geothermal energy and sewer heat recovery that dramatically reduce heating and cooling costs.<a href="/5a833174-cf8d-4be5-82bd-953db2905326">Power DC</a> will also hold utilities accountable and reduce the city’s dependence on volatile regional energy markets by generating more power locally. At the same time, we will build long term partnerships for clean energy production and prepare DC’s grid for next generation technologies.The result is simple: lower energy bills, cleaner power, and a modern energy system that works for residents instead of against them.<h1>Sustainable Transportation</h1>Transportation is one of the largest sources of pollution and one of the biggest expenses for families.My administration will expand access to <a href="/57d6d179-70dc-4eed-9122-15b3a845f8a6">reliable public transit</a>, strengthen infrastructure for biking and walking, and accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and cleaner transportation systems. Investments in transit accessibility and sustainable infrastructure will reduce congestion, improve air quality, and lower the cost of getting around the city.Cleaner transportation means healthier neighborhoods and more mobility for residents.<h1>Urban Agriculture and Vertical Farming</h1>Access to fresh and affordable food should exist in every neighborhood. Yet many communities still face limited access to healthy groceries and locally grown produce.My administration will support innovative food systems by repurposing underused buildings into hubs for indoor vertical farming and sustainable agriculture. These facilities can produce fresh food year round while creating good paying green jobs and workforce development opportunities in emerging agricultural technology.By combining innovation with community involvement, we can strengthen local food systems, reduce food deserts, and provide healthier options for families across the city.<h1>Climate Resilience</h1>Climate change is already affecting Washington, DC through stronger storms, flooding, and extreme heat. Preparing our neighborhoods for these challenges is essential to protecting residents and city infrastructure.My administration will invest in resilient infrastructure that protects homes, businesses, and public services while prioritizing communities that face the greatest environmental risks. That includes flood mitigation, heat resilience strategies, and long term planning to ensure the District remains safe and livable for generations to come.<h1>Cleaner Neighborhoods and Public Health</h1>Sustainability also means maintaining clean, healthy neighborhoods. Washington, DC is experiencing a significant increase in rat populations, which creates serious public health concerns and reduces quality of life for residents.My administration will implement a coordinated citywide response to address the issue. Responsibility for rodent control will shift to the Department of Public Works to ensure stronger accountability and more effective prevention strategies. We will require rat proof trash containers, increase trash collection frequency, expand proven mitigation methods such as dry ice treatment of burrows, and improve data tracking to target problem areas.Residents will also play a role through programs like the <a href="/e1ca92c9-0259-4f55-9be3-55ae764d80b0">Rat Block Captain initiative</a>, which encourages community participation in keeping neighborhoods clean and reporting problem areas.Cleaner streets, better waste management, and stronger community engagement will help restore healthier neighborhoods across the District.<h1>The Vision</h1>Sustainability is about building a city that works better for the people who live here. By reducing energy costs, strengthening food systems, improving public health, and investing in resilient infrastructure, DC can become a national model for practical, people focused environmental leadership.With the right investments today, Washington, DC can build a future that is cleaner, healthier, more affordable, and more resilient for generations to come.<h5>DC Lives Here. Expect More.</h5>

Every neighborhood in DC deserves a cleaner, healthier future. I will lower energy costs through <a href="/5a833174-cf8d-4be5-82bd-953db2905326">Power DC</a>, expand clean transportation and sustainable food systems, and invest in resilient infrastructure while tackling issues like waste management and the city's growing rat problem. Sustainability should make lives healthier, more affordable, and more livable for every Washingtonian.

Sustainability

As the Washington Examiner reports on Kenyan McDuffie’s entry into the Washington, D.C. mayoral race, the conversation about the future of our city continues to evolve. Amid this shifting political landscape, Goodweather for DC stands with a clear and distinct vision that aligns with the priorities D.C. residents are demanding: people-centered leadership, economic opportunity for all eight wards, and unwavering defense of home rule. While McDuffie’s campaign highlights his legislative experience and populist appeal, Gary Goodweather offers real-world leadership as an Army veteran and local business innovator.In an era marked by federal interference and rising costs of living, Goodweather for DC emphasizes steady, inclusive growth that ensures prosperity reaches every resident, from long-standing communities to new families choosing to call Washington home.As McDuffie and other candidates shape their platforms, the distinction with Goodweather’s approach becomes clear: leadership rooted in service, community-first priorities, and a commitment to making D.C. work for the people who make this city great.Click <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/4418383/kenyan-mcduffie-enters-washington-dc-mayoral-race/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE </a>to view the full article!

As the Washington Examiner notes Kenyan McDuffie’s entry into the mayoral race, Gary Goodweather offers community-driven leadership, economic opportunity for all eight wards, and a steadfast commitment to defending D.C.’s home rule while putting everyday Washingtonians first.

Goodweather Mentioned in the Washington Examiner

As Mayor, I will make opportunity a central priority for Washington, DC. Every resident should have the chance to live safely, receive a world class education, and access meaningful work. But too many communities still face barriers that limit potential and disconnect people from the pathways that allow them to succeed.Opportunity means building systems that support people at every stage of life. That starts with safer neighborhoods, strong schools, and an economy that creates real jobs and career pathways.<h1>Safety</h1>Safety is the foundation of opportunity. When people feel safe in their neighborhoods, children can focus on learning, businesses can grow, and communities can thrive.My administration will strengthen both public safety and community trust. We will support law enforcement while expanding community based violence prevention and intervention programs that stop crime before it starts. Through initiatives like the Public Safety Support branch of the <a href="/3c62a8a5-487c-40ea-a711-4b5208d6c8e1">Capital Corps</a>, residents will be able to work alongside first responders and community organizations to build trust, strengthen prevention efforts, and create safer neighborhoods across every ward.Public safety is about building communities where opportunity can take root.<h1>Education</h1>Washington, DC has everything it needs to lead the nation in public education. We have the resources, the talent, and families who show up every day believing our schools can do better. A Goodweather administration will make that belief real.Every student accounted for. Every child reading by third grade. Every teacher supported. Every neighborhood connected to opportunity. That is the future we will build together.<h1>Every Student Accounted For</h1>When students are in the building, everything else becomes possible. A Goodweather administration will treat attendance as the foundation of student success and build systems that make showing up easier, safer, and expected.Real time attendance tracking will allow schools to identify struggling students in weeks, not months. Safe Passages will expand to every school where students need safer routes to class. The ONSE Leadership Academy will scale from three high schools to ten, providing mentorship and leadership opportunities for young people. Principals will have greater flexibility to direct at risk funding where it is needed most, and <a href="/57d6d179-70dc-4eed-9122-15b3a845f8a6">Fare Free DC</a> transit will ensure transportation is never a barrier to getting to school.<h1>Every Child Reads by Third Grade</h1>Through third grade, students learn to read. After third grade, students read to learn. If we want our students to succeed in every subject, literacy must come first.In 2013, Mississippi decided every child would read by third grade. They implemented mandatory screening, Individual Reading Plans, and intensive intervention. By 2019, they posted the largest NAEP reading gains of any state in the country, with a ten point increase.DC has more resources, more talent, and more reason to lead. We will.We will fully implement the Science of Reading across DC schools with evidence based instruction focused on phonics, decoding, fluency, and comprehension. Every K through third grade student will receive universal literacy screening multiple times per year so struggling readers are identified early.Students who need additional help will receive Individual Reading Plans, with parents notified within ten days. We will introduce a Third Grade Reading Gate with retests, summer reading programs, and appropriate exemptions for English language learners and students with individualized education programs. Universal dyslexia screening will begin by first grade, and free one on one tutoring will be available for students in grades one through twelve.“Every child who walks into a DC school deserves to walk out able to read, able to think critically, and able to see a future. That’s the standard.” — Gary Goodweather<h1>Invest in the People Who Show Up Every Day</h1>Education does not end at the school door. Students need safe spaces, strong mentors, and clear pathways to opportunity.A Goodweather administration will expand after school and summer programs with tutoring, enrichment, and safe spaces for young people. Late night recreation centers will provide supervised spaces staffed by mentors. Every school will have a full time nurse and a mental health clinician so students receive the care they need to succeed.Through the <a href="/3c62a8a5-487c-40ea-a711-4b5208d6c8e1">Capital Corps</a> Youth Track, high school students will gain access to structured civic service, job training, and career development opportunities that connect education directly to the workforce. Career and Technical Education will expand, including the creation of an Advanced Technical Center in every ward.<h1>Employment</h1>Opportunity must continue beyond the classroom. DC should be a city where residents can build careers, start businesses, and participate in the industries shaping the future.The <a href="/3c62a8a5-487c-40ea-a711-4b5208d6c8e1">Capital Corps</a> will create a new pathway into service, education, and employment. Residents will commit to structured weekly service while receiving training, mentorship, and education benefits that prepare them for careers in healthcare, education, technology, public safety, infrastructure, and community development.At the same time, the Responsible Innovation Security and Employment initiative will ensure that DC leads responsibly in the age of artificial intelligence and emerging technology. Workers will receive advance notice and transition support when automation changes jobs, while residents gain access to free or low cost AI tools and training. Small businesses will receive support to modernize and compete, and new career pathways will open in high demand technology sectors.This approach ensures that innovation benefits everyone. Technology should create opportunity, not eliminate it.<h1>A City Where Opportunity Lives</h1>Opportunity means safety in our neighborhoods, excellence in our schools, and an economy that creates pathways to exceptional jobs.When we invest in people, support our students, and prepare residents for the future of work, Washington, DC becomes a city where everyone has the chance to succeed.Because when opportunity exists in every neighborhood, our entire city moves forward, together.<h5>DC Lives Here. Expect More.</h5>

Every resident in DC deserves a real shot at success. I will expand opportunity by building safer neighborhoods, ensuring every child receives a world class education and can read by third grade, and creating clear pathways to exceptional jobs through initiatives like the <a href="/3c62a8a5-487c-40ea-a711-4b5208d6c8e1">Capital Corps</a> and workforce training for the jobs of the future. Opportunity should be the promise of living in our city.

Opportunity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 5, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for DC </a><a href="mailto:anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165 <h4 style="text-align: center;">Goodweather Unveils Fare-Free DC: A Plan to Eliminate Metro Fares for All Residents</h4>Comprehensive policy proposal provides free Metrobus and Metrorail for 400,000 daily tripsWashington, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, DC business leader, U.S. Army veteran, long-time resident, and candidate for Mayor of Washington, D.C., today released Fare-Free DC, a comprehensive policy proposal to eliminate fares on all Metrobus and Metrorail services for District residents."Every year, we ask the people who make our city run—our teachers, healthcare workers, and service employees—to pay every time they move through the city they call home," stated Goodweather. "We provide roads, sidewalks, and bridges free at the point of use. It's time to do the same for transit."The proposal eliminates fares for all DC residents, including students and people experiencing homelessness, while pairing fare elimination with investments in service reliability, frequency, and extended hours. Maryland and Virginia residents and tourists would continue paying standard fares.Under the plan, Metrobus service would become free for DC residents within the first two years, with Metrorail following by the end of the first term. The program would serve 400,000 daily trips by DC residents and save regular transit users approximately $1,000 annually."This isn't a campaign slogan—we have a fleshed out proposal with detailed cost modeling, a diversified funding strategy, and a phased implementation plan," said Goodweather. "Washingtonians deserve leaders who are prepared to govern, not just campaign."The $350-380 million annual program would be funded through a diversified revenue strategy, including telecommunications infrastructure revenue, congestion pricing, value capture from transit-adjacent development, and redirected traffic enforcement revenue, among other funding mechanisms. No single funding source would exceed 23% of total program costs.The proposal notes that 84% of DC bus riders are DC residents, 60% are Black, and 68% have household incomes below $50,000. A 2018 study found that 91% of Metro fare evasion citations were issued to Black individuals, despite Black residents comprising 47% of DC's population.A webpage with high-level details is currently live, with the full policy proposal and technical appendix to follow at <a href="http://goodweatherfordc.com/fare-free-dc">goodweatherfordc.com/fare-free-dc</a>.Gary Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer<a href="/press-release-goodweather-for-mayor-announces-fare-free-dc-plan.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">PDF Download</a>

Goodweather today released Fare-Free DC, a comprehensive policy proposal to eliminate fares on all Metrobus and Metrorail services for District residents.

Goodweather Unveils Fare-Free DC: A Plan to Eliminate Metro Fares for All Residents

Washington, DC is home to more than 700,000 residents, more people than several states, yet our voices are too often ignored or overridden by federal interference. We pay federal taxes, serve in the military, and contribute to the strength of this country, but we are denied full representation in Congress and regularly face attempts by outside politicians to override the decisions made by the people who live here.I believe self determination is a fundamental right. Washingtonians deserve the ability to govern our own city without interference from those who do not live here. As Mayor, I will defend our democracy by protecting Home Rule, expanding DC’s autonomy, and standing with residents against federal overreach.<h1>Protecting DC’s Right to Self Governance</h1>Our government should answer to the people who live in Washington, DC. That means ensuring the Mayor and Council can set policies on public safety, budgeting, education, and city services without Congress stepping in to override local decisions.Through the Defend DC framework, my administration will coordinate legal, legislative, and public strategies to protect our autonomy. We will prepare legal responses to congressional interference, build national coalitions with organizations like the ACLU, NAACP, and DC statehood advocates, and raise the political cost when Congress attempts to undermine the will of DC residents.We will also expand public education about Home Rule so residents understand their rights and the importance of protecting local democracy.<h1>Representation and Statehood</h1>DC residents deserve the same representation as every other American. That means a voting seat in the House of Representatives now and ultimately full representation in Congress with two Senators through DC statehood.While statehood remains the most direct path to equal representation, my administration will pursue every available legal, legislative, and constitutional pathway to expand DC’s autonomy today. That includes pushing to eliminate the Congressional review period that allows lawmakers from other states to block our laws, ending congressional budget riders that restrict how our city spends its own money, and advocating for limits on presidential authority to interfere in DC’s local government.Our goal is simple: DC residents should have the same democratic rights as Americans everywhere else.<h1>Defending Home Rule</h1>Home Rule is only as strong as the leaders willing to defend it. As Mayor, I will treat attacks on DC’s autonomy as attacks on the people who live here.My administration will coordinate closely with the Council and the Attorney General to monitor congressional threats and respond quickly through legal action, public advocacy, and coalition building. We will ensure our budgets are responsible and transparent so Congress cannot use fiscal management as a pretext to interfere with our local decisions.Defending Home Rule also means strengthening civic education in our schools and ensuring residents understand the stakes when federal lawmakers attempt to override DC laws.<h1>Protecting Residents from Federal Overreach</h1>The DC government must stand between federal enforcement agencies and the residents who live here. Our agencies serve the people of this city, not outside political agendas.My administration will strengthen sanctuary protections by prohibiting DC agencies from cooperating with immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant and preventing the use of local resources for federal immigration activities. Schools, hospitals, houses of worship, and city facilities will be treated as protected spaces where residents can access services without fear.We will launch a citywide Know Your Rights campaign so residents understand their constitutional protections, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. A legal defense fund will provide representation for residents targeted by federal enforcement actions, ensuring that no one faces the system alone.<h1>Expanding Local Autonomy</h1>DC deserves the authority to govern itself fully. That includes control over our courts, command of the DC National Guard during peacetime, and the ability to make fiscal decisions without congressional interference.Through long term structural reforms such as expanded Home Rule authority, we will pursue changes that give DC greater legislative independence, control over our own budget, and the ability to modernize our local government to better serve residents.Autonomy also means a city government that is responsive, transparent, and accountable to the people who live here.<h1>My Commitment</h1>I will fight relentlessly for DC’s right to self governance and equal representation. While continuing to push for statehood and full congressional representation, I will also pursue immediate steps that strengthen our autonomy and protect residents from outside interference.As Mayor, I will never allow the future of Washington, DC to be dictated by politicians who do not live here.This campaign is about ensuring that the people who call DC home have the power to shape the future of our city.<h5>DC Lives Here. Expect More.</h5>

Every resident of Washington, DC deserves the right to have their voice respected and their city govern itself. I will defend our democracy by protecting Home Rule and fight for statehood, stand up to federal interference, and ensuring all DC residents have the power to shape their own future so our residents have the representation and autonomy we deserve.

Democracy

March with Goodweather for Mayor in the MLK Day Parade as we honor Dr. King’s legacy and stand together for justice, community, and a better future for DC. Bring your friends and help show the strength of our people-powered movement. All are welcome!

March with Goodweather For Mayor at the MLK Parade

ICE Out For Good Rally

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 11, 2025Contact: Anthony Field | Campaign Manager, <a href="https://goodweatherfordc.com/">Goodweather for DC </a><a href="mailto:anthony@goodweatherfordc.com">anthony@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 301.892.3165 <h4 style="text-align: center;">Goodweather Campaign Shatters Records for First-Time DC Mayoral Candidate</h4>Grassroots effort raises nearly $280,000 with matching funds from over 1,000 DC donors — a historic firstWashington, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, DC business leader, U.S. Army veteran, and candidate for Mayor of Washington, D.C., today announced that his campaign — his first run for any public office — has achieved what no first-time candidate has ever accomplished in a DC mayoral race: raising nearly $280,000 (including DC Fair Elections matching funds) from more than 1,000 individual DC donors.The milestone, reflected in the campaign's latest finance report, marks an unprecedented level of grassroots support for a political newcomer in the District."What we've built together is historic," said Goodweather. "We started with no name recognition, no donor list, no political machine. What we had was a message and a willingness to show up — ward by ward, door by door, conversation by conversation. More than a thousand of our neighbors have now joined this movement. You can't fake that."The numbers tell only part of the story. Over the past several months, Goodweather has built a volunteer operation of more than 50 DC residents who have discussed policy, attended events, and spread the word across their neighborhoods. The campaign has maintained a presence in all eight wards — from organization meetings and farmers markets to church services and neighborhood cookouts."What I hear in every ward is the same," Goodweather continued. "People want to feel safe. They want to afford to stay in this city. They want opportunity. And honestly? They're skeptical — because they've been promised all of that before. What's different about this campaign is we're showing our work. Real policy. Real plans. People know the difference."Goodweather, who has never held or sought political office, entered the race with a vision for a safer, more prosperous, and more self-determined Washington. His campaign has released detailed policy proposals on transit equity (Fare-Free DC), workforce development (Capital Corps), AI and worker protections (the RISE Act), and neighborhood quality of life — including a comprehensive plan to address the District's rat crisis.The 2026 Democratic primary represents the first open mayoral seat in Washington, D.C. in two decades.Gary Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C.###Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer<a href="/press-goodweather-fundraising-milestone-121125.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">PDF Download</a>

Gary Goodweather's campaign — his first run for any public office — has raised nearly $280,000 from over 1,200 individual donors, including 1,052 DC residents. This level of grassroots support is unprecedented for a first-time candidate in a DC mayoral race.

Goodweather Campaign Shatters Records for First-Time DC Mayoral Candidate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2026Contact: Jaylin Drewry | Communications Director, <a href="mailto:jaylin@goodweatherfordc.com">jaylin@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 757.230.0833<h3 style="text-align: center;">Gary Goodweather Submits Nearly 5,000 Signatures to Qualify for D.C. Mayoral Ballot</h3>WASHINGTON, D.C. — This afternoon, Gary Goodweather, candidate for Mayor of the District of Columbia, submitted nearly 5,000 petition signatures to the D.C. Board of Elections, more than double the 2,000 signatures required to qualify for the ballot in the June Democratic primary.This milestone marks a major turning point in the campaign and reflects a growing grassroots movement across all eight wards of the District.“This campaign has been built by the people of Washington, D.C.,” said Goodweather. “For more than a year, we have been in neighborhoods across this city, listening to residents, understanding their concerns, and developing real solutions. Today’s submission reflects that work and the momentum we are building together.”Since launching in February 2025, the campaign has engaged residents in every corner of the city - from Ward 1 to Ward 8 through direct outreach, conversations, and sustained organizing efforts. Supporters, volunteers, and members of our team collected signatures citywide, demonstrating broad support for a new direction in our city leadership.Goodweather’s campaign has also made history as the first mayoral campaign in D.C. to qualify for public matching funds led by a candidate who has never previously held or run for public office, signaling both strong grassroots support and a new push for civic participation in the District.“This moment is about more than qualifying for the ballot,” Goodweather added. “It’s about building a campaign that reflects the voices of residents across our city and creating a vision for a more affordable, safer, and more accountable Washington D.C.”With petition signatures now submitted, the campaign enters the next phase of the race, focusing on expanding voter engagement, sharing its vision for the future of the District, and building a coalition that represents every neighborhood and community.Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self-determined Washington, D.C. ### Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer

This afternoon, Gary Goodweather, candidate for Mayor of the District of Columbia, submitted nearly 5,000 petition signatures to the D.C. Board of Elections, more than double the 2,000 signatures required to qualify for the ballot in the June Democratic primary.

Gary Goodweather Submits Nearly 5,000 Signatures to Qualify for D.C. Mayoral Ballot

As major real estate leaders in Washington, D.C. weigh the implications of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s decision not to seek reelection, the conversation around the next leader for the city is taking shape. Gary Goodweather — Democratic mayoral candidate, Army veteran, and experienced business leader — is stepping forward with a vision that balances economic vitality with community-centered growth. The Bisnow article notes Goodweather’s entry into the mayoral contest as a local real estate executive who brings firsthand knowledge of development, investment, and sustainable urban progress. His campaign emphasizes working collaboratively with business leaders, developers, and residents to foster a stable economic climate that attracts investment while ensuring equitable opportunities for all Washingtonians. Goodweather’s candidacy reflects a commitment to pragmatic leadership that understands the challenges and potential of the District’s economy as the city looks ahead to a new chapter of leadership.Click <a href="https://www.bisnow.com/washington-dc/news/economic-development/dc-real-estate-leaders-anxious-about-mayors-race-as-bowser-steps-aside-132162" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE </a>to view the full article!

As major real estate leaders in Washington, D.C. weigh the implications of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s decision not to seek reelection, the conversation around the next leader for the city is taking shape. Gary Goodweather — Democratic mayoral candidate, Army veteran, and experienced business leader — is stepping forward with a vision that balances economic vitality with community-centered growth.

Goodweather Quoted in Bisnow

As the Washington Post reports on the launch of new mayoral campaigns in the first open mayoral race in two decades, the future of Washington, D.C. is at a pivotal moment. With Mayor Muriel Bowser stepping aside, longtime political figures are entering the race and reigniting debates about economic growth, public safety, and the city’s relationship with the federal government. Amid this shifting political landscape, Goodweather for DC offers a distinct, community-rooted vision focused on residents who live, work, and raise families here.As an Army veteran, local business leader, and lifelong advocate for community-driven growth, Goodweather brings a practical understanding of how policy decisions affect everyday Washingtonians.As the mayoral field continues to take shape, Gary Goodweather’s candidacy reflects a forward-looking alternative — one that prioritizes DC living DC leadership, protects home rule, and builds a city that works for everyone. In a moment defined by transition and uncertainty, Goodweather for DC is focused on delivering steady, people-first leadership for the future of the District.Click <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2026/01/14/kenyan-mcduffie-dc-mayor/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE</a> to view the full article!

As the Washington Post highlights the first open mayoral race in two decades, Gary Goodweather is quoted as a leading voice in the conversation about D.C.’s future. An Army veteran and local business leader, Goodweather is bringing a people-first vision focused on home rule, community-driven growth, and leadership rooted in the lived experiences of Washingtonians.

Goodweather Mentioned in the Washington Post

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 1, 2026Contact: Jaylin Drewry | Communications Director, <a href="mailto:jaylin@goodweatherfordc.com">jaylin@goodweatherfordc.com</a> | 757.230.0833<h4 style="text-align: center;">GARY GOODWEATHER RESPONDS TO JANEESE LEWIS GEORGE'S METRO DC DSA ENDORSEMENT</h4>WASHINGTON, D.C. — Gary Goodweather, candidate for Mayor of the District of Columbia, today reaffirmed his commitment to governing for every DC resident and every community, without exception, following the publication of Councilmember Janeese Lewis George's Metro DC DSA endorsement questionnaire responses."I took an oath to the United States Constitution. As an officer in the U.S. Army, I served for all Americans regardless of race, religion, background, or belief. That principle doesn't stop at the Potomac.""I talk to DC residents every day, in every ward. They tell me about the problems they face; the kinds of problems we can and should solve together. I seek out more voices, not fewer. That's what leadership requires."In her written responses to the Metro DC DSA endorsement questionnaire, Councilmember Lewis George committed to refusing engagement with a broad category of Jewish and pro-Israel organizations a category the DSA defines expansively enough to include even J Street, one of the most progressive pro-Israel groups in the country. She also used the questionnaire to distance herself from a December speech she gave at a Jewish Community Relations Council breakfast, where she had pledged to stand by Jewish Washingtonians."A mayor who pre-decides which residents deserve to be heard has already failed the most basic test of leadership. Governing is not a zero-sum game where some DC residents win at the expense of others."In his first 90 days, Goodweather will convene a DC Jewish Community Advisory Council. He will maintain an open door policy for every community, faith group, and constituency across all eight wards. No neighborhood will lack direct access to the mayor's office. No community will be told they are unwelcome at the table."What DC needs most right now is a politics of inclusion that brings people together in civil discourse, hearing more perspectives, solving problems together. That is what residents should expect from their leadership. That is what I will do as mayor.""Every Washingtonian, no matter what ward they live in, what faith they practice, or what they believe, deserves a mayor who will earn their vote and govern for them. That is the mayor I will be."Voters can read Councilmember Lewis George's full questionnaire responses as reported by Jewish Insider:<a href="https://jewishinsider.com/2026/02/janeese-lewis-george-dc-mayor-dsa-endorsement-zionist-lobby/"> </a><a href="https://jewishinsider.com/2026/02/janeese-lewis-george-dc-mayor-dsa-endorsement-zionist-lobby/">https://jewishinsider.com/2026/02/janeese-lewis-george-dc-mayor-dsa-endorsement-zionist-lobby/</a>"As mayor, I will govern for all DC residents from Day 1." Goodweather for Mayor is a grassroots, Fair Elections campaign committed to building a safer, stronger, and more self determined Washington, D.C. ### Paid for by Goodweather for DC, Malachy Nugent, Treasurer

Gary released a statement responding to Councilmember Janeese Lewis George's Metro DC DSA endorsement questionnaire, in which she committed to refusing engagement with a broad category of Jewish and pro-Israel organizations and walked back pledges she had made to Jewish Washingtonians just weeks earlier.

Past Events

One Year Anniversary Party!

Office Warming Party

March with Goodweather For Mayor at the MLK Parade

Join Goodweather For Mayor at the ICE Out of DC Rally

Goodweather for DC: Campaign Milestone Celebration

Community Improvement Day with Team Goodweather

DC Art All Night + Gary's Birthday!

We Are All DC Rally

End of Summer Bash in the Palisades!

Join Gary @ Ward 3 & 4 Family Day