WASHINGTON — In a contentious legal battle unfolding in the nation’s capital, Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White is facing considerable pressure as he battles federal bribery charges without presenting evidence of his innocence. Amidst allegations of accepting bribes from a D.C. contractor, White’s response has largely been to challenge the process through his attorney Fred Cooke Jr., instead of contesting the charges directly.
During a recent council session intended for White to defend his actions, Cooke criticized the members for what he described as a flawed and unjust process, even threatening legal action against the council. He argued that the council was overstepping its bounds, a role that should be reserved for the city’s ethics board, which has already initiated its own investigation into the allegations against White.
Cooke’s defense strategy hinges on the assertion that expelling White from the council before a conviction undermines his constitutional rights, including the right to a fair appeal process. This stance comes in anticipation of an expulsion vote scheduled for Feb. 4, which councilmembers have indicated will likely result in White’s removal.
The council’s position, as articulated by Chair Phil Mendelson, remains firm, with a unanimous recommendation for White’s expulsion still standing. Mendelson expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of Cooke’s threatened legal challenges post-expulsion. The council’s legal framing of the issue is supported by former Ward 3 Councilmember Mary Cheh, a constitutional law professor. Cheh criticized Cooke’s arguments as “fanciful” and lacking a substantial constitutional basis.
The atmosphere during the council hearing was tense, with Cooke’s attempts to defend White provoking mixed reactions among the attendees. Several supporters of White voiced their intentions to challenge the council’s decision in court, a sentiment that highlights the divisive nature of the case.
Adding a layer of irony to the proceedings, Cooke referred to past legal troubles involving Mendelson, attempting to compare them to White’s current situation. However, this tactic appeared to have little impact on influencing the council’s decision-making process.
The controversy comes amid broader scrutiny of ethics and accountability in D.C. politics. Similar instances in the past have led council members to resign voluntarily, such as the case with former Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans. However, White has indicated no plans to resign, setting the stage for a continued legal and political struggle.
As the community and the council brace for the vote on White’s expulsion, the outcome will test the council’s resolve and signal how D.C. politicians handle serious allegations of misconduct among their ranks. Mendelson summed up the importance of the decision, emphasizing the need for public trust in government and suggesting that prolonging final judgments could erode that trust.
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