Robert White resigns from DC Council to run for delegate seat

Robert White officially resigned from the DC Council on Monday to secure his eligibility as the Democratic nominee for the DC delegate seat, FOX 5 DC reported. The resignation was necessary because a 1970s law prohibits the delegate from holding another paid public office on election day.

White addressed supporters outside the Wilson Building, thanking his staff and family and emphasizing his commitment to the city. He said the resignation was a sacrifice to ensure there was nothing standing between him and his next mission, according to FOX 5 DC.

White has served on the council for 10 years and announced his candidacy for delegate after Eleanor Holmes Norton, who held the seat for 45 years, decided not to run again, WTOP reported. He expressed disagreement with the law requiring his resignation and vowed to change it if elected.

During his council tenure, White highlighted accomplishments such as restoring voting rights for incarcerated people, creating a youth mentoring program, passing an abortion rights bill, and helping preserve a building important to DC's Go-Go Music heritage, now a museum, WTOP reported.

The DC Democratic Party is working to fill the now-vacant at-large council seat, with a selection to be made at an appropriate time, FOX 5 DC reported.