City Cast DC Who Is DC's New Councilmember? Plus, DC’s Best Restaurants and Its Worst Speed Cameras
Jan 23, 2026
Alex Koma, a reporter at WAMU focusing on D.C. politics, joins the conversation to unpack the complexities surrounding the recent appointment of Donnie Crawford to the council. He explores the unique process behind her selection and the potential impact of her policies. They also delve into the controversial speed cameras in D.C., examining their revenue generation versus safety implications. Jessica Sidman from Washingtonian shares insights on compiling the top 100 restaurants in D.C., highlighting top picks like Albi and Jaunt that elevate dining experiences.
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Unprecedented Council Appointment
- D.C.'s council had to invent a process to replace an independent at-large member for the first time in history.
- That led to behind-the-scenes bargaining and a unanimous appointment of Donnie Crawford as a short-term member.
Crawford's Background And Constraints
- Donnie Crawford brings budget and housing policy experience but is politically untested as an elected official.
- Her influence may be limited because she's the most junior member and may only serve a few months.
Why The Seat Is Unique
- The at-large independent seat exists because of D.C.'s home-rule charter and congressional distrust of one-party rule.
- That status creates unique replacement rules and political maneuvering when an independent resigns.