Robert White aims to prioritize D.C. statehood as new delegate

Robert White, the newly elected nonvoting delegate for Washington, D.C., intends to make D.C. statehood a primary legislative priority. Succeeding Eleanor Holmes Norton, who is retiring after more than three decades, White plans to advocate for equal representation for District residents.

White argues that granting statehood to Washington, D.C. would provide Democrats with additional votes, helping the party advance its policy agendas, including affordability and reproductive rights. He faces the challenge of navigating a Congress focused on various high-priority issues while holding a position that does not allow for floor votes.

White’s arrival follows a period of increased federal interest in local D.C. affairs. He intends to build upon the legislative groundwork established by his predecessor and former colleagues, such as Walter Fauntroy.