DC Mayor Muriel Bowser Steps Down After Three Terms

Muriel Bowser, the current mayor of Washington, D. C. , has decided not to run for another term. She has been in office since 2015, and her third term will end in January 2027. Bowser made this announcement in a video posted on social media, expressing gratitude for her time in office and the support she received. Bowser's decision comes at a time when the city faces several challenges. The federal government has been reducing its workforce, which has impacted D. C. 's economy. Additionally, there have been efforts to deploy National Guard members into the city, which Bowser has had to navigate carefully. Despite these challenges, Bowser highlighted some of her accomplishments during her time in office. She mentioned the completion of the largest infrastructure project in the city's history, the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge. She also pointed to improvements in the city's economy, such as record low unemployment rates and a high bond rating, although this rating was later downgraded due to federal budget cuts. Bowser's decision sets the stage for a significant political battle in the District. Several city council members have expressed interest in running for mayor, including Kenyan McDuffie and Janeese Lewis George. The election will be held in November 2026, and the next mayor will have to address the city's ongoing challenges and build on Bowser's accomplishments. In her announcement, Bowser praised the city's resilience and the hard work of its residents. She also expressed hope that the next mayor would continue to prioritize the city's growth and well-being. As she steps down, Bowser leaves behind a legacy of service and a city that has seen both progress and challenges during her tenure.