Socialist Mayors Surge: Lewis George Wins DC Race, Trump Warns of Federal Takeover

Janeese Lewis George, a self-described socialist, has won Thursday’s Democratic primary for Washington, D.C., mayor—a victory that underscores voter dissatisfaction with the cost of living and President Donald Trump.

Running on a platform of strong rent controls, expanded public transport subsidies, and ending cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, Lewis George would become one of eight mayors affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America if elected.

Her triumph coincides with Zohran Mamdani’s victory over Andrew Cuomo, the son of a political dynasty, in New York City’s race for mayor. Katie Wilson secured an upset win in Seattle last fall, and Nithya Raman has advanced to this month’s November runoff against Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

The Democratic Socialists of America have grown from a few thousand members to over 100,000 nationwide in the past decade, fueled by younger Americans joining after Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaigns as a self-described socialist.

Lewis George faces no major opposition in November’s general election, positioning her as Washington’s next mayor. In her role, she is poised for a critical clash with Trump, who has repeatedly threatened to place the district under federal control.

Trump recently told reporters at the White House: “We won’t put up with it” if Lewis George wins and would consider a federal takeover of Washington.

In response, Lewis George stated: “Threatening Home Rule because you do not like how residents vote is an attack on democracy itself. The people of D.C. elect the mayor of D.C., and they want someone who will stand up to Donald Trump.”

Progressive candidates are gaining momentum across the country in mayoral races. City leaders face heightened scrutiny as socialists prepare to deliver on promises for new forms of governance—a test that could reshape national politics.

Eric Stern, a Democratic strategist with Fight Agency who helped campaign for Mamdani, noted: “They’re all channeling a displeasure with a status quo and a serious desire for economic populism the establishment Democratic Party hasn’t been preaching.”