Opportunity DC IEC Congratulates At-Large Councilmember-Elect McDuffie’s Victory

WASHINGTON – Earlier this year, civic leaders came together to launch the Opportunity DC Independent Expenditure Committee (IEC) to educate District voters about what was at stake in this election. The group, led by business leader Antwanye Ford and former DC Chief Financial Officer Natwar Gandhi, engaged voters across the city over the last month in support of Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie in his bid for an At-Large Council seat.

“Voters made a clear choice this election: They chose a proven leader with a track record of creating jobs, supporting small- and Black-owned businesses and making DC a more equitable, inclusive place to live and work for all residents here in the District,” said Opportunity DC IEC Chairman Ford. “When voters sent Councilmember McDuffie back to the Wilson building, they sent a strong message on their priorities for the future and we wholeheartedly congratulate Councilmember McDuffie on his successful campaign.” 

The District has lost more than 23,000 residents since 2021 and more than 2,300 downtown businesses since 2020. New taxes and regulations, housing costs, rising crime and the shift to telework have forced too many residents and businesses out of the city.

Opportunity DC is committed to changing that trend by supporting candidates who will help create jobs, support small businesses and make DC a more equitable, inclusive place to live and work. That includes issue like: 

• Creating an environment where new businesses can start and grow;

• Supporting incentives for businesses to thrive, especially in underserved communities in most need of services and employment opportunities; 

• Investing in job training programs and incentives to ensure that everyone benefits from the District’s successes; and

• Increasing the District’s inventory of low- and middle-income housing so long-term and new residents can afford to stay in the District.

Opportunity DC intends to continue to expand its work and engagement on civic issues and campaigns that impact employing businesses and employees. 

Ford continued, “There's no reason everyone shouldn’t have the same opportunity I’ve had to start a business, raise a family and create jobs right here in the District. Good public policy can help everyone, and Opportunity DC ICE will continue to advocate for positive policies that close the racial wealth gap, create jobs and grow the economy.”