McCourt School’s Institute of Politics and Public Service Hosts 2026 DC Democratic Mayoral Primary Debate
With the first open seat in 20 years, the mayoral debate brought together three qualifying candidates to debate top-of-mind issues facing the nation’s capital.
The Institute of Politics and Public Service (GU Politics) at Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy partnered with Fox 5 DC for a televised debate at Georgetown University’s Capitol Campus. The debate for the Washington, DC, democratic mayoral nomination was moderated by FOX 5’s Jim Lokay and Katie Barlow (L’14), and GU Politics Executive Director Mo Elleithee (SFS’94).
“This is an event that sits at the heart of what the McCourt School is about: rigorous policy debate and constructive engagement with the community,” said Carole Roan Gresenz, dean of the McCourt School, in her opening remarks. “By hosting events like this debate, the Institute provides opportunities for our students to take part in public policy in practice.”
Candidates (from left to right): Kenyan McDuffie, Janeese Lewis George and Gary Goodweather
Candidates Gary Goodweather, businessman; Janeese Lewis George, Ward 4 councilmember; and Kenyan McDuffie, former at-large councilmember, discussed affordability, public safety and other pressing topics for DC voters. The event marked one of the first televised debates since DC implemented ranked-choice voting for local elections.
The televised debate was moderated by Fox 5’s Jim Lokay and Katie Barlow (L’14), first two from left, and GU Politics Executive Director Mo Elleithee (SFS’94).
The live audience included members of Georgetown University and residents from across the District.
The debate was hosted at the McCourt School’s 400-seat auditorium at 125 E St.
The debate was held as registered voters in the city began receiving their mail ballots, and before the beginning of in-person early voting. The full debate can be viewed on the Fox 5 Washington, DC, YouTube channel.
GU Politics and Fox 5 DC previously partnered on a live televised DC Democratic Mayoral Debate in June 2022.
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