Mike Austin

Mike Austin (Democratic Party) ran in a special election to the Washington D.C. City Council to represent Ward 8. He lost in the special general election on July 15, 2025.

Austin completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Mike Austin was born in Washington, D.C. He earned a bachelor's degree from the Xavier University of Louisiana. Austin's career experience includes working as an attorney.^[1]

Elections

2025

General election

Special general election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

The following candidates ran in the special general election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8 on July 15, 2025.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Trayon White (D)	27.7	2,392
		Sheila Bunn (D)	24.8	2,140
		Mike Austin (D)	24.4	2,103
		Salim Adofo (D)	22.4	1,932
		Oliver Roy (D) (Write-in)	0.0	0
	Submit photo	Mary Roach (D) (Write-in)	0.0	0
	Submit photo	Delonte Ford Singh (R) (Write-in)	0.0	0
		Other/Write-in votes	0.7	63

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 8,630
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Austin in this election.

2020

General election

General election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Incumbent Trayon White defeated Frederick Hill III, Christopher Cole, and Nate Derenge in the general election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8 on November 3, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Trayon White (D)	78.8	25,340
	Submit photo	Frederick Hill III (Independent)	14.8	4,745
	Submit photo	Christopher Cole (Independent)	3.2	1,023
		Nate Derenge (R)	2.2	717
		Other/Write-in votes	1.0	316

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 32,141
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Free Moore (Independent)

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Incumbent Trayon White defeated Mike Austin, Yaida Ford, and Stuart Anderson in the Democratic primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8 on June 2, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Trayon White	58.2	5,063
		Mike Austin	27.3	2,376
	Submit photo	Yaida Ford	7.5	656
	Submit photo	Stuart Anderson	4.7	405
		Other/Write-in votes	2.3	197

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 8,697
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Nate Derenge advanced from the Republican primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8 on June 2, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Nate Derenge	60.6	43
	Other/Write-in votes	39.4	28

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 71
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Mike Austin completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Austin's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Mike Austin, a fourth-generation Washingtonian, attorney, and candidate for Ward 8 DC Council. I’ve spent my career fighting for this community: serving as Associate General Counsel at United Medical Center, where I worked to protect patients and support one of the most important institutions in our Ward.

I’ve also served as Chair of ANC 8C, worked in the Ward 8 Council office as the Legislative Director, and helped lead workforce and economic development efforts with the Deputy Mayor for Greater Economic Opportunity. I know how government works, and more importantly, I know how it should work for the people.

I’m running because Ward 8 deserves better: better schools, safer streets, more jobs, and real affordable housing. Right now, the needs are urgent, and we do not have a strong voice at the table. I’m ready to change that.

This campaign is not about politics. It is about purpose. I have the experience, the values, and the drive to deliver real results for the families of Ward 8: starting on day one.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I’m running because Ward 8 deserves leadership you can count on. Too often, our community has been overlooked, ignored, or used for political gain. I believe in showing up, listening, and doing the work. That means fighting for safer streets, better schools, and housing that truly works for families. It also means being honest with residents, even when the answers are hard. Trust is earned through action, and I’m committed to rebuilding it—block by block, day by day. Ward 8 has real challenges, but we also have deep strength. Together, we can turn the page and deliver the kind of progress our families have been waiting for.
This is not my first time stepping into the arena for Ward 8. I’ve served as Associate General Counsel at United Medical Center, where I fought to protect patients and keep healthcare accessible for our residents. I’ve worked in the Ward 8 Council office as the Legislative Director, and I’ve helped lead workforce and economic opportunity efforts under the Deputy Mayor. I’ve chaired ANC 8C and brought people together to solve real problems. I understand how DC government works, and how to make it work for Ward 8. I’m not learning on the job. I’m ready to get to work on day one and fight for the resources, opportunities, and investments our community deserves.
Ward 8 is full of talent, strength, and resilience. I believe in the power of our people, and I’m running to make sure our community gets the tools to succeed. That means investing in our young people early, creating real jobs with strong wages, and supporting our seniors so they can age with dignity. It means bringing opportunity east of the river and ending the cycle of being left behind. I’ve seen what’s possible when leaders believe in the people they serve and fight with everything they have. That’s what I’ll do every day on the Council because I believe Ward 8 deserves to rise.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about public policies that open doors for working families, especially in economic development, education, health care, and housing. Every person in Ward 8 should have access to a good job, a quality school, and care they can count on close to home. I have worked on these issues throughout my career, from leading workforce programs to serving as Associate Counsel at United Medical Center. I also believe housing policy should reflect the real cost of living and the everyday struggles families face. Whether it is improving safety, expanding opportunity, or investing in our people, I am focused on results that make life better today and build a stronger future for our community.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to my father. He showed me what it means to be steady, hardworking, and grounded in your values. He was never one for a lot of words, but his actions spoke volumes. Whether it was going to work every day without complaint or spending time with me after school throwing a football around, he showed up.

He taught me the importance of keeping your word, taking care of your family, and standing tall in the face of adversity. His example reminds me that leadership is not about titles, it is about responsibility, consistency, and heart. That is the kind of leader I strive to be.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

One book I often return to is The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama. It is about believing in the power of ordinary people to shape their future and the importance of principled, thoughtful leadership. That message speaks to me because I believe real change starts with listening, building trust, and never losing faith in what our communities can achieve. The book also reminds us that politics is not about scoring points. It is about building bridges and doing the hard work to deliver results. If you want to understand my political philosophy, start there. It is about hope, hard work, and a deep respect for the people we serve.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

For me, the most important qualities in an elected official are integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to service. People should be able to trust that their leaders will tell them the truth, show up when it matters, and fight for what is right even when it is not easy. An elected official should listen before speaking and lead with the understanding that public service is not about personal gain, it is about lifting up the people you represent. You also need to be willing to do the work, learn from others, and stay focused on results. At the end of the day, it is not about politics. It is about people. That principle should guide every decision we make.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I bring a deep commitment to service, a strong work ethic, and the ability to listen and lead with integrity. I have spent my career working in and alongside government, so I understand how to get results and navigate complex systems. But more than that, I care deeply about people. I show up, I listen, and I follow through.

I believe in building trust, not just talking about it. I am steady under pressure, honest even when it is hard, and focused on solutions that actually improve people’s lives. I do not need the spotlight, I just want to do the work and make a real difference for the residents of Ward 8.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibility of a councilmember is to be a voice for the people and a fighter for their needs. That means showing up, listening to the community, and turning those conversations into action. A councilmember should be deeply engaged in the budget, push for policies that create opportunity, and ensure city agencies are delivering for Ward 8. It also means holding government accountable, asking tough questions, and making sure resources are going where they are needed most. But more than anything, this job is about service. It is about standing with residents through challenges and doing the hard work every day to make their lives better.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want to leave a legacy of service, results, and restored trust. I want people in Ward 8 to say their councilmember showed up, told the truth, and got things done. That schools got stronger, housing got more stable, streets got safer, and jobs came to our community because we had leadership that cared and delivered.

I want young people to see that you do not have to leave Ward 8 to succeed, and that you can lead with integrity, stay rooted in your community, and still make a real impact. If I can help open doors for others and leave Ward 8 better than I found it, that is the legacy I want to build.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I clearly remember was the Million Man March in 1995. I was around eight years old at the time. I remember the energy in the city, the pride in my family, and the way my elders talked about it as something powerful and deeply meaningful. Even as a child, I could feel that something important was happening. It was a moment that brought Black men from all over the country to the National Mall to stand together in unity and purpose. That sense of pride, community, and responsibility stuck with me, and it helped shape how I think about leadership and service today.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was at Downtown Locker Room in the Eastover Shopping Center, selling shoes after school during high school. I was proud to have that job. It taught me how to talk to people, how to listen, and how to hustle to meet a goal. I worked there throughout the school year, balancing homework, sports, and that part-time job. It gave me my first real taste of responsibility and showed me what it meant to earn a paycheck. More than that, it showed me the value of hard work and the importance of opportunity—lessons I carry with me to this day.

What is your favorite book? Why?

One of my favorite books is 1984 by George Orwell. It left a strong impression on me because it shows how dangerous it is when truth gets distorted and power goes unchecked. It is a powerful reminder of why transparency, accountability, and individual freedom matter so much in any democracy.

Reading it made me think deeply about the role of government and the responsibility leaders have to protect the rights and dignity of the people they serve. It also made me appreciate the importance of staying informed, asking questions, and never taking our freedoms for granted.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I’d choose T’Challa, the Black Panther. He leads with strength, wisdom, and a deep sense of responsibility to his people. He balances tradition with progress and never loses sight of who he is or where he comes from.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

The last song that got stuck in my head was “Public Service Announcement” by Jay-Z. That opening line, “Allow me to reintroduce myself,” just sticks with you. It’s bold, confident, and reminds you to stand tall in who you are. It’s the kind of energy I try to carry into this campaign and into public service knowing your worth, speaking with purpose, and staying true to yourself no matter the moment.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of the biggest struggles in my life has been learning how to balance responsibility and self-care. From a young age, I felt the need to take on a lot whether it was helping my family, stepping into leadership roles, or pushing myself to succeed professionally. I carried the weight of wanting to do everything right and not let anyone down.

Over time, I realized that to truly serve others, I had to take care of myself too. That meant learning how to pause, reflect, and be honest about my own limits. It is still a work in progress, but that journey has made me a better leader more grounded, more patient, and more focused on what really matters.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The ideal relationship between the mayor and the DC Council should be one of respect, collaboration, and accountability. We do not have to agree on everything, but we should be united in our commitment to serve the people of this city. The mayor brings the executive vision and day-to-day leadership, while the Council provides oversight, crafts legislation, and represents the voices of every ward. That balance only works when both sides are honest, transparent, and willing to work together. I believe in tough but fair partnerships, where we challenge each other when needed but always keep the focus on delivering results for residents.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, Ward 8 will face several major challenges that will shape the future of our community. The first is economic opportunity. Too many residents are locked out of good jobs and career pathways. We need sustained investment in workforce development, small business growth, and pathways to ownership that keep wealth in the community.

The second is housing. We are seeing rising costs, neglected properties, and too many families at risk of displacement. We need more affordable housing that is truly accessible and more support for renters and homeowners alike.

The third is public safety. We need safer streets, but also more resources for youth, mental health support, and violence prevention.

If we meet these challenges with urgency and care, we can build a stronger Ward 8 for the next generation.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes, I believe having experience in government or politics can be beneficial, but only if it is grounded in service and results. Knowing how the system works helps you navigate it, hold it accountable, and get things done for the people you represent. I have seen firsthand how government decisions affect Ward 8, whether it is the hospital, our schools, or job programs. My experience means I can lead on day one.

That said, experience alone is not enough. What matters most is a commitment to community, a willingness to listen, and the courage to act. Titles do not move the needle—people do. Experience should be a tool for service, not a shield from responsibility.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes, it is absolutely beneficial to build strong relationships with other DC Councilmembers. No one can get anything done alone. Progress takes partnerships. If you want to pass legislation, secure funding for your ward, or push for meaningful change, you need allies who will stand with you and help move the work forward.

Building those relationships does not mean compromising your values. It means finding common ground, having honest conversations, and staying focused on what matters—getting results for the people you serve. I believe in leading with respect, listening with humility, and working together to deliver for every corner of the city, especially Ward 8.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Yes, I look to former Ward 8 Councilmember Wilhelmina Rolark as a model for the kind of leadership I strive to bring to this role. She was a fighter for our community, deeply rooted in service, and never afraid to speak up for what was right. She understood the power of policy but also the importance of presence—showing up, listening, and being there for people.

Councilmember Rolark believed in the potential of Ward 8 and worked every day to make sure we were not left behind. That legacy inspires me. Like her, I want to lead with integrity, stand up for our residents, and make sure Ward 8 has a voice that cannot be ignored.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

No, I am not interested in running for any other political office. My focus is right here in Ward 8. This is home. This is where I want to serve, and this is where I believe I can make the biggest difference. I am not running as a stepping stone or to build a political career. I am running because I care deeply about this community and believe we deserve strong, steady, and accountable leadership. My commitment is to the people of Ward 8, not to political ambition. I want to do the work, deliver results, and help build a future that our children can be proud of.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

One story that has stayed with me came from a grandmother I met in Congress Heights. She was raising three grandchildren on her own after losing her daughter, and she spoke with quiet strength about the struggle to keep them safe, housed, and in school while living on a fixed income. She had lived in the same apartment for more than a decade, but her rent kept rising and basic repairs were being ignored.

What struck me most was her resilience. She was not asking for a handout, just a fair shot and a city government that would not leave her behind. That conversation reminded me why I’m running. It is not about titles or politics. It is about people like her who deserve someone in office who sees them, hears them, and fights for them every single day.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Yes, the legislature should have a role in overseeing and granting the use of emergency powers. In moments of crisis, it is important for government to act quickly—but that action must still be accountable to the people. The Council represents every ward in the city and should have a voice in how emergency powers are used, how long they last, and what safeguards are in place to protect civil liberties and public trust.

Emergency powers should never be a blank check. They should be guided by clear rules, time limits, and transparency. I believe in a strong executive that can respond in real time, but always with oversight that ensures those powers are used wisely, fairly, and only when truly necessary.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

The first bill I would introduce is the Displacement Prevention Act focused on keeping Ward 8 residents in their homes, while we develop responsibly. Too many families are being pushed out by rising rents and skyrocketing property taxes.

This bill would ensure our most vulnerable Ward 8 residents can stay rooted where they live and grow.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Former Ward 8 Councilmemember, LaRuby May; Former Ward 8 Councilmemember Eydie Whittington; Former Ward 8 Councilmemember Sandy Allen, DMV New Liberals; DC Realtors, Opportunity DC, ElectED

What committees interest you?

I am especially interested in serving on the Committees on Labor, Health, and Business and Economic Development. These areas are central to the future of Ward 8. I want to be at the table where decisions are made about how we create good-paying jobs, expand access to quality health care, and support local businesses. As someone who has worked on workforce programs and served as Associate Counsel at United Medical Center, I know how policy can either help or hold back our community. These committees deal with the issues that matter most to our residents, and I want to make sure Ward 8 has a strong voice shaping that work.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are the foundation of public trust. Residents have every right to know how their tax dollars are being spent and whether those dollars are making a difference. That means clear budgets, open data, and honest answers when things go wrong. It also means holding agencies and elected officials to high standards. We cannot ask people to do more with less while government fails to deliver on the basics. I support stronger oversight, regular performance reviews, and real consequences when there is waste, fraud, or abuse. Government should work for the people and be held accountable by the people—always.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

2020

Mike Austin did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.

External links

Search Google News for this topic

Candidate

Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Personal

Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on June 30, 2025

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on June 30, 2025

[1]

Mike Austin

Contents

Biography

Elections

2025

General election

Special general election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

2020

General election

General election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

2020

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

Services

Additional analysis

SITE NAVIGATION