Salim Adofo

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Salim Adofo

Democratic Party

Elections and appointments

Last election

July 15, 2025

Education

High school

St. Mary High School

Bachelor's

University of the District of Columbia, 2023

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Army

Years of service

2003 - 2007

Personal

Profession

Business consultant

Contact

Campaign website

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Salim Adofo (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.

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

Biography

Salim Adofo served in the U.S. Army from 2003 to 2007. He earned a high school diploma from St. Mary High School and a bachelor's degree from the University of the District of Columbia in 2023. His career experience includes working as a business consultant.

2025 battleground election

See also: City elections in Washington, D.C. (2025)

Ballotpedia identified the July 15 special election as a battleground race. The summary below is from our coverage of this election, City elections in Washington, D.C. (2025)

Trayon White (D) defeated six other candidates in a special election for Ward 8 of the Washington, D.C. City Council on July 15, 2025.

On the Ballot Episode 202 - DC's First Council Expulsion: Trayon White Runs to Reclaim his Seat After Federal Corruption Charges

On August 19, 2024, federal agents arrested White, a councilmember at the time, after he allegedly accepted bribes to influence government contracts. On February 4, 2025, the D.C. council voted unanimously to expel White. White pleaded not guilty, and his trial was scheduled to begin in January 2026.

Salim Adofo (D) was the chair of DC's Advisory Neighborhood Commission for Ward 8. White defeated Adofo 52% to 28% in the 2024 primary for this seat. Adofo's website said he "will work to reduce gun violence, empower our young people, help create quality housing and bring more food options to benefit all of Ward 8."

Mike Austin (D) was the chief of staff in the office of the Deputy Mayor of Economic Development and a former staffer for Ward 8 Councilmember LaRuby May (D). White defeated Austin 58% to 27% in the 2020 primary for this seat. His website said his priorities included "investing in Ward 8 students and businesses, attracting responsible development, and strengthening our workforce so Ward 8 is ready for the demands of tomorrow."

Sheila Bunn (D) was a former staffer to U.S. Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.). She worked in the mayor's office and for Ward 7's Council Office. She previously ran for this seat in 2015, finishing in third behind LaRuby May and Trayon White. Bunn campaigned on her experience in ward politics, and her website said, "After 30 years of working with Congresswoman Norton, Mayor Gray, and at the DC Council, I am the most experienced candidate to deliver results for Ward 8."

White represented this ward from 2017 to 2025. He was re-elected in 2024 with 76% of the vote. White said of his decision to run after his expulsion: "I just got re-elected in November with 20,000 votes... We really don't feel like the council had the authority to really get me out of office, and people feel like that as well, so it's going to show in this upcoming election."

At a candidate forum with all four candidates, three of the candidates discussed the charges against White. Adofo said, "I think that moving forward gives us an opportunity to go a different direction. We have to take into consideration [if this] is where we want to go." Austin said, "We can no longer give passes for malfeasance... We can’t abuse our trust and our loyalty and our elected officials." Bunn said, "We need a leader at this time that is not fraught with any ethical issues. One that is ready on day one to work with the current council members that has relationships with the current council members to move the needle for Ward 8." White said of the charges, "You heard one side, haven’t heard my side, but that’s why I’m here still fighting for not just for my freedom, but for the freedom of all people in Ward 8 and across the District."

University of Maryland Prof. George Musgrove said that despite the charges, White had learned "how to cultivate a relatively small but pretty fervent electoral base in a low-turnout ward. He only has to mobilize a couple thousand people." Democratic Party of the District of Columbia chair Charles Wilson said that even with his base, he "[didn't] think he should take his name recognition for granted," and The Washington Post's Meagan Flynn and Jenny Gathright wrote that there were voters at the candidate forum who "found the bribery scandal a tiring distraction, even among those who backed White in the past."

Mary Roach (D), Oliver Roy (D), and Delonte Ford Singh (R) also ran as write-in candidates.

Elections

2025

See also: City elections in Washington, D.C. (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.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Doc Adams (R)
• Charnal Chaney (D)
• Khadijah Clark (D)
• Eric Cleckley (D)
• Kenneth Diggs (R)

Endorsements

To view Adofo's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Adofo in this election.

2024

See also: City elections in Washington, D.C. (2024)

General election

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

The following candidates ran in the general election for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Trayon White (D)	75.8	20,371
		Nate Derenge (R)	14.8	3,981
		Michael Reese (Independent) (Write-in)	0.0	0
	Submit photo	Michael Brown (D) (Write-in)	0.0	0
	Submit photo	Khadijah Clark (D) (Write-in)	0.0	0
	Submit photo	June Sherman (D) (Write-in)	0.0	0
		Olivia Henderson (D) (Write-in)	0.0	0
		Other/Write-in votes	9.3	2,509

---

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 26,861
= 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.
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Democratic primary election

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

Incumbent Trayon White defeated Salim Adofo and Rahman Branch in the Democratic primary for Washington D.C. City Council Ward 8 on June 4, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Trayon White	51.5	3,835
		Salim Adofo	27.7	2,063
		Rahman Branch	20.3	1,511
		Other/Write-in votes	0.6	41

---

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 7,450
= 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

• Kevin Cannaday (D)
• Markus Batchelor (D)

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 4, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Nate Derenge	79.7	126
		Other/Write-in votes	20.3	32

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 158
= 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

• Quinn K. Nii (R)

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Adofo in this election.

Campaign themes

2025

Video for Ballotpedia

Video submitted to Ballotpedia Released February 14, 2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Salim Adofo completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Adofo'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.

Salim Adofo is a lifelong public servant with over 20 years of experience in local and federal government and the nonprofit sector. His journey began in the U.S. Army, where he served honorably as a Specialist in the 125th Finance Battalion. He later worked at the University of the District of Columbia as a Project Coordinator for the Dean, helping to create educational programming for students. In 2018, he was elected Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner for ANC 8C, and in 2021, he was unanimously chosen as Chair.

In the nonprofit sector, Salim served as a tenant organizer, helping over 800 Ward 8 residents access legal support and rental assistance during the COVID-19 crisis. He also helped form and strengthen tenant associations across the ward.

To improve education, Salim partnered with the National Society of Black Engineers to launch the Ward 8 STEM Academy, teaching local students science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts, while also building skills in critical thinking and conflict resolution.

As Commissioner, Salim led efforts to improve traffic safety and infrastructure by securing speed bumps near schools, road resurfacing, and raised sidewalks. He also launched the “Clean Ward 8” initiative—coordinating monthly cleanups that earned him the Mayor’s “Community Impact of the Year” Award in 2021.

Salim is a UDC graduate, a member of Union Temple Baptist Church and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and a proud resident of Congress Heights.

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?

• Ward 8 families deserve to live, work, and thrive without fear—but too many don’t feel safe. Homicides, especially among youth, are rising. As Councilmember, I’ll advance public safety by addressing root causes, supporting victims, and ensuring accountability. I’ll expand behavioral health crisis response, strengthen victim services, improve oversight of violence prevention programs, and support safe schools. Together, we can build a Ward 8 where every resident feels safe and supported.
• Young people in Ward 8 deserve to grow up in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment—one that empowers them to thrive. As Councilmember, I’ll expand career pathways, mentorship, and educational opportunities so youth never have to choose between safety and success. I’ll fight chronic truancy by partnering with schools to create hands-on, career-connected learning. I’ll strengthen Safe Passage routes and expand internships with life skills, leadership training, and clear paths to college, trades, or public service.
• Whether you live in Bellevue or Navy Yard, every Ward 8 resident deserves safe, clean, and affordable housing—with a path to homeownership. As Councilmember, I’ll enforce housing standards, expand HPAP and DC Open Doors, and increase workforce housing for essential workers. I’ll empower tenants, repurpose vacant properties, and protect seniors, disabled residents, and low-income families from displacement. I’ll also expand housing for survivors of domestic violence and returning citizens—ensuring all our neighbors have a stable place to call home.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about food equity and proudly support Bill 26-0109 – the Farmers Market Support Amendment Act of 2025. Ward 8 has faced food insecurity for decades. Since 1998, the Ward 8 Farmers Market—founded by residents—has increased access to fresh, healthy food and supported local farmers. This bill will streamline permits, reduce fees, expand grants, and raise awareness. It’s a vital step toward health equity across D.C. I urge the Council to pass Bill 26-0109.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

The Ward 8 Council office plays a unique and vital role in D.C. government by serving as both a direct voice for historically underserved communities and a powerful engine for equity-focused policymaking. Ward 8 has long faced systemic disinvestment, racial inequality, and limited access to opportunity. The Councilmember is uniquely positioned to challenge these injustices by bringing community-rooted leadership into the legislative process. Representing neighborhoods like Congress Heights, Bellevue, Anacostia, and Washington Highlands, the office remains closely connected to residents’ daily experiences—whether dealing with unsafe housing, food insecurity, youth violence, or inconsistent city services.

Although D.C. is not a state, its Council operates with legislative powers similar to a state legislature. This gives the Ward 8 Councilmember the authority to shape laws that impact the entire city—while ensuring that a Ward 8 perspective is centered in key debates around housing, public safety, education, healthcare, and job creation. Just as critical is the office’s oversight function. Holding agencies like DCHA, MPD, and the Department of Behavioral Health accountable is essential to ensuring services are delivered fairly and equitably—especially in a community that has experienced chronic neglect.

Beyond policy and oversight, the Ward 8 Council office is a driver of racial and economic justice. It amplifies resident voices, advocates for legislation rooted in lived experience, and forges partnerships with tenant groups, churches, nonprofits, and schools to build a more resilient Ward 8. This office is more than a legislative seat—it’s a frontline platform for justice and transformation, ensuring the District delivers on its promise of equity and opportunity for all.

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

Eyes on the Prize is the perfect recommendation for understanding my political philosophy. It’s not just a documentary about the Civil Rights Movement—it’s a blueprint for community-driven change, moral courage, and the power of collective action. My approach to politics is grounded in many of the same values the series brings to life: grassroots organizing as the foundation of lasting change, policy rooted in lived experience, and a firm commitment to equity, dignity, and justice. Above all, I believe that ordinary people—when united—can achieve extraordinary things.

The series reminds us that progress is never handed down from the top; it’s demanded by those bold enough to speak out, stand firm, and push forward in the face of resistance. From the Montgomery Bus Boycott to the Voting Rights Act, Eyes on the Prize captures how organizing, coalition-building, and moral clarity have reshaped our nation—and how those same principles continue to drive social change today.

Like the leaders and communities featured in Eyes on the Prize, I believe in public service that listens to the people, fights for justice, and works to build a future where every resident—especially in places like Ward 8—has the opportunity to thrive. If you want to understand why I fight, who I fight for, and how I believe change happens—watch Eyes on the Prize. That’s the spirit guiding this campaign.

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

The most important characteristics and principles for an elected official can be grouped into three core areas: integrity, effectiveness, and connection to the community. At the heart of strong leadership is integrity and accountability. Honesty is essential—an elected official must tell the truth, even when it’s difficult, and avoid making empty promises. Transparency is just as important, ensuring that constituents are regularly informed about key decisions, the use of public funds, and shifting priorities. True accountability means owning mistakes, taking corrective action when needed, and holding both oneself and others to the same high standard.

Equally important is a deep commitment to public service. Dedication means consistently putting the needs of constituents above personal or political ambition. A strong sense of equity is vital, as elected leaders must champion policies that uplift historically marginalized communities and actively address systemic inequality. Courage is required to take principled stands, even when those positions are unpopular—if they serve the public’s best interest, they are worth fighting for.

Elected officials must also demonstrate responsiveness and accessibility. Listening actively to residents, respecting their concerns, and incorporating their feedback into policy decisions is foundational to good governance. Leaders should be visible and present—attending community events, responding to phone calls and emails, and making themselves available. Collaboration with fellow leaders, agencies, and local organizations is key to solving problems and delivering results.

Finally, great leaders must have vision and competence. They need to be informed and prepared, understanding the issues deeply and seeking expert guidance when necessary. Problem-solving should be focused on practical solutions rather than blame, ensuring resources are used wisely. Most importantly, elected officials should be forward-thinking—planning not just for t

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

The core responsibilities of an elected member of the D.C. Council, particularly for a representative of Ward 8, extend far beyond casting votes—they require bold leadership, clear vision, and a deep-rooted commitment to public service. First and foremost is legislative leadership. A Councilmember must draft, sponsor, and pass laws that directly improve the lives of residents—laws that address housing affordability, educational equity, public safety, job creation, healthcare access, and more. Every policy decision must be guided by a commitment to equity, ensuring Ward 8 receives its fair share of resources, investment, and attention from District leadership.

Another critical duty is government oversight. A Councilmember must hold city agencies accountable to the people they serve—making sure roads are repaired, 311 requests are answered, schools are supported, and services are delivered efficiently. This includes actively monitoring the city’s budget to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, transparently, and in ways that truly benefit residents—especially those in historically underserved communities.

Equally important is constituent advocacy. Elected leaders must actively listen to residents—not only during election season but year-round. This means turning community concerns into policy action and being consistently present at ANC meetings, town halls, and neighborhood events. Accessibility, responsiveness, and relationship-building must be a top priority.

Community building is also essential. Councilmembers must foster strong partnerships with nonprofits, faith-based organizations, businesses, and neighborhood groups to create stronger, more resilient communities. That includes empowering residents through civic education, youth development, tenant organizing, and economic opportunity.

Finally, true leadership requires a strategic vision—planning for long-term growth and sustainability. From infrastructure and green spaces to economic mobility and clima

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy of service and unwavering commitment to helping others—especially those who have been overlooked, underserved, or denied a fair shot. My goal is to be remembered as someone who showed up, stood up, and never gave up on our community. A leader who led with integrity, listened with compassion, and fought every day to make Ward 8—and the entire District—a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I want my legacy to reflect real change: safer streets, stronger schools, more housing, and a government that finally works for the people. Above all, I hope to inspire others to serve, to lead, and to believe that when we work together, lasting progress is not only possible—it’s inevitable.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

Yes, there are several lesser-known but highly impactful powers and responsibilities of the Ward 8 Council office that more residents should be aware of—tools that, when fully utilized, can drive meaningful change for the community. One of these is the Councilmember’s ability to influence the District’s budget at the committee level. While many people understand that the Council votes on the budget, fewer realize that each member, through their committee assignments, can help shape funding priorities for specific agencies and programs. This means the Ward 8 Councilmember can advocate for increased resources for schools, public safety, housing repairs, or local nonprofits well before the final vote occurs.

Another little-known responsibility is the Councilmember’s role in approving contracts over a certain threshold. This power enables the Ward 8 Council office to push for transparency and accountability in how city contracts are awarded—especially in ensuring local businesses and Ward 8-based contractors have a fair shot at participating in economic development projects. The Councilmember also plays a role in zoning and land-use decisions. Although the Zoning Commission has final authority, the Councilmember can influence redevelopment projects, affordable housing allocations, and the preservation of green space by shaping public opinion, introducing resolutions, and working with the Office of Planning and relevant agencies.

Additionally, the Ward 8 Councilmember can nominate or recommend residents to serve on boards and commissions—giving community members a voice in shaping policies on education, housing, public safety, and more. These appointments often go unnoticed, but they play a significant role in determining how city services are implemented on the ground. Finally, the Councilmember holds soft power through relationships with agency heads, advocacy organizations, and the Mayor’s office.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

The Ward 8 Councilmember must bring a unique combination of skills, lived experience, and policy knowledge to effectively represent a community that has endured decades of systemic neglect but continues to show deep resilience and untapped potential. This role requires more than political ambition—it demands a leader who understands the structural barriers residents face and can challenge them through thoughtful legislation, strategic oversight, and responsive leadership. With the D.C. Council controlling a $19 billion budget and shaping laws that directly affect daily life, the Councilmember must be well-versed in crafting policy, analyzing legislation, and directing resources toward urgent community needs—especially in areas like housing, education, public safety, and jobs.

Problem-solving under pressure is another essential skill. The Councilmember must respond to layered challenges with innovative, community-driven solutions. From gun violence to school underfunding, they must cut through bureaucracy, build partnerships across sectors, and deliver measurable results. This requires not only critical thinking but also a deep understanding of agency operations and limitations.

Strong communication is vital. The Councilmember must listen actively, elevate resident concerns, and clearly communicate with government officials, stakeholders, and the public. Explaining policy, building support, and speaking with moral clarity—particularly on equity and justice—are essential for trust and progress.

Relationship-building is equally important. The Councilmember must collaborate with fellow Councilmembers, the Mayor, agency heads, and most importantly, Ward 8 residents. Progress requires coalitions, shared goals, and persistent advocacy.

Ultimately, integrity and accountability are foundational. Ward 8 needs a Councilmember who shows up, follows through, and puts people first.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

The Ward 8 Council office holds a unique and vital place within D.C.’s local government because it serves as both a legislative authority and a direct representative of one of the city’s most historically underserved and resilient communities. Unlike many legislative bodies that may feel distant from the people they serve, the Ward 8 Councilmember operates with close proximity to constituents—allowing for real-time responsiveness to neighborhood-level concerns like housing conditions, school funding, public safety, and access to basic services. This connection to the community is not just symbolic—it informs how policy is shaped, resources are allocated, and oversight is exercised. The office plays a critical role in crafting legislation, approving the city’s multi-billion-dollar budget, and making decisions that impact every aspect of daily life—from affordable housing and healthcare access to job creation and education.

What makes this office especially important is its role in elevating the voices of Ward 8 residents—many of whom have been excluded from policymaking processes for generations. By amplifying those perspectives, the Councilmember helps drive equity-focused policies not only for the ward but across the District. The office also has the authority to conduct oversight of District agencies, ensuring accountability in how public services are delivered. This is particularly important in Ward 8, where systemic failures by city agencies have often gone unchecked. Additionally, the Councilmember helps shape land-use and development decisions, influences appointments to city boards and commissions, and plays a key role in connecting residents to critical services and advocacy.

In essence, the Ward 8 Council office is more than a legislative seat—it’s a frontline position for justice, equity, and transformative leadership. It bridges the gap between government and community, ensuring that those who have been left behind are not only heard but prioritized.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Laborers' International Union of North America (LiUNA), Sigma PAC 1914, Zetas In Action

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable pillars of good governance. Without them, trust between residents and their elected leaders erodes—and progress becomes impossible.

I believe every taxpayer has the right to know how their money is being spent and whether it’s truly serving the public good. That means clear, accessible reporting on budgets, contracts, and program outcomes, not just technical spreadsheets buried online. Transparency is about communication as much as compliance.

Accountability goes hand-in-hand. It means ensuring that agencies, departments, and elected officials are held responsible when services fall short, money is misused, or promises are broken. As Councilmember, I would demand strong oversight of District agencies, advocate for auditable performance benchmarks, and ensure community voices are included in oversight processes—especially in Ward 8, where residents have often been left out of decision-making.

Ultimately, I view financial transparency and accountability not just as policies, but as commitments to justice, equity, and the rightful empowerment of the people. Government should work for the people—and the people should be able to see it.

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.

2024

Salim Adofo did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey.

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