WHY I’M RUNNING

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DEAR NEIGHBORS,

I’m running for Council because too many people in Ward 1 are doing everything right and still feel ignored by the city they call home.

I’ve seen neighbors struggle to afford the place they have always lived. I’ve talked with small business owners still recovering from COVID, trying to stay afloat on commercial corridors that feel forgotten. I’ve worked with residents frustrated by city services that show up late or do not show up at all.

I’m running because I believe we can do better. We need a city government that listens before it acts, stays focused on issues impacting you, and keeps its promises. That means making housing more affordable, addressing homelessness with real solutions, and keeping our neighborhoods safe with smart, community-focused strategies. It also means supporting public schools, defending DC’s autonomy, and building a more inclusive economy that values creativity, entrepreneurship, and long-time residents alike.

I have spent years working on these issues. I have helped neighbors navigate broken systems, secured funding for parks and public space, and created programs that help people stay in their homes. I have been successful because leadership means listening first, acting boldly, and following through. But that work only goes so far when the culture at the top does not match the urgency on the ground.

This campaign is about fixing that disconnect. It is about bringing the same level of follow-through, trust, and accountability that I have delivered in our neighborhoods to the Council itself.

We’re building a new kind of coalition — longtime residents and new arrivals, renters and homeowners, progressives and moderates — all united by the belief that Ward 1 can work better for everyone. I would be honored to earn your support.

With gratitude,

Signature text reading 'Brian Footer' in white cursive on a black background.

LESS TALKING.

MORE LISTENING.

BETTER COLLABORATION.

Commissioner Brian Footer is a third-generation native of the DC metro area, LGBTQ+ community member, and longtime Ward 1 public servant running for DC Council to make government work better for everyone.

From building Safe at Home to help DC seniors stay safely in their homes to leading ANC 1E with a focus on equity and connection, Brian has spent his career compassionately listening and solving real problems. He’s running to bring inclusive, responsive leadership to the Council so every neighbor in Ward 1 feels seen, heard, and supported.

Ready to get involved right now? Then click GET INVOLVED and join today. This is an all-hands-on-deck effort, and we need your help!

A diverse group of people of various ages and ethnicities gathered indoors, posing for a photo, some smiling and others with neutral expressions.

THREE ACTIONS. ONE PURPOSE.

  • A man is giving a presentation about Howard University Bond Bread / WRECO to an audience seated on a couch and chairs in a room with large windows and ambient lighting.

    1. STAY UP TO DATE

    Be part of a campaign that’s grounded in listening, problem-solving, and showing up for our neighbors. Sign up to volunteer, knock doors, or help spread the word.

    JOIN US
  • Three young men standing and talking outdoors under a wooden shelter.

    2. SHARE YOUR IDEAS

    Have a question, idea, or concern? We want to hear from you—your feedback helps shape the work we do and the priorities we fight for.

    CONTACT US
  • Four smiling friends taking a selfie outdoors in front of a building with a white brick wall.

    3. DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN

    Every dollar helps us build a campaign rooted in trust, results, and real connection. Your contribution goes directly toward organizing, outreach, and community-driven solutions.

    DONATE