A Washington, D.C. Council committee has unanimously voted to recommend the expulsion of Councilmember Trayon White Sr. following an independent investigation into bribery allegations. The committee's decision comes after a report revealed substantial evidence supporting the claims that White accepted over $150,000 in bribes, violating the D.C. Code of Conduct.

Council Chairman Phil Mendelson stated that the evidence clearly points to corruption, emphasizing the severity of the accusations and the need for decisive action. He stressed that removing White from the council is the only way to restore public trust.

White's arrest on federal bribery charges this past summer stemmed from accusations that he accepted bribes in exchange for influencing violence interruption contracts. The independent investigation, conducted by Latham and Watkins LLP, involved a thorough review of documents, interviews, emails, and text messages. Investigators reportedly found substantial evidence that White accepted cash from business owners seeking his influence over government officials responsible for contract approvals.

The investigation also uncovered a ledger allegedly detailing White's planned profits, including a 3% kickback from renewed grants. White, speaking before the committee meeting, maintained his innocence, claiming a lack of direct evidence against him. The council requires a five-sixths vote to officially expel a member. A proceeding will be held within 45 days, allowing White to present his defense. His federal bribery trial is scheduled for January 2026, with a potential sentence of up to 15 years if convicted.