A Washington D.C. councilmember accused by federal authorities of accepting $156,000 in bribes is set to undergo an expulsion hearing on Tuesday. The legislative body will convene to address the matter of Councilmember Trayon White, Sr.'s alleged Code of Conduct violations.
Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie disclosed that an investigative report uncovered substantial evidence linking White's actions to the bribery accusations, which reportedly breached multiple provisions of the D.C. Council's Code of Official Conduct.
The Justice Department has filed a criminal complaint against White, asserting that he illicitly agreed to receive cash payments in exchange for leveraging his position to influence government employees and extend D.C. contracts. White has maintained his innocence and faces a potential 15-year prison sentence if convicted, with a jury trial scheduled for January 2026.
Despite the allegations, White secured re-election to his seat in November, expressing confidence in the support from Ward 8 constituents. He emphasized the importance of decisions being in the hands of the people.
During the hearing, White will have the opportunity to present his defense and challenge the evidence against him. He is permitted to have a representative, whether legal or not, speak on his behalf and question witnesses. To be expelled, a majority vote of 11 out of 13 council members is required.
The expulsion vote is slated for Tuesday, Feb. 4, marking a critical juncture in the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the bribery allegations against Councilmember Trayon White, Sr.
