Janeese Lewis George projected to win D.C. Democratic primary for mayor, defeating Kenyan McDuffie

Updated on: June 18, 2026 / 3:35 PM EDT / CBS News

Janeese Lewis George projected to win D.C. Democratic primary for mayor, defeating Kenyan McDuffie

TL;DR

  • Janeese Lewis George won the Democratic primary for mayor of Washington, D.C.
  • Kenyan McDuffie conceded defeat to Lewis George.
  • D.C. used a ranked-choice voting system for the first time in this primary.
  • President Trump has warned of a potential federal takeover of D.C. if Lewis George becomes mayor.
  • Both Lewis George and McDuffie expressed a desire to protect D.C.'s autonomy and home rule.
  • Lewis George campaigned on universal affordable childcare, increased government-backed housing, and improved social programs.
  • McDuffie focused on lowering the cost of living and strengthening public safety.