WASHINGTON — Editor's Note: This is one installment in a series of profiles of the candidates running in D.C.'s mayoral race leading up to the June 21 primary elections.
Primary Day is just around the corner for D.C. voters, and campaigns are coming to a head for many candidates. WUSA9 caught up with Ohio native James Butler outside of MPD headquarters to hear his plans for tackling the city's growing crime concerns and what he would do for education and transportation needs, if he were elected mayor.
The 46-year-old self-proclaimed “underdog” said he’s had to fight for exposure and recognition in a race full of established politicians – even fighting court battles to be included in some debates.
“I’m fighting but I’ll tell you this – we’re getting noticed by the people that count and that’s the voters,” Butler said.
Butler believes D.C. voters want change.
“We’ve been electing the same people, recycling, playing musical chairs with elected offices,” he said. "And people’s lives are at stake.”
Butler’s plan to address the rising crime in D.C. involves more police officers. He proposes housing incentives -- with hopes of subsidizing up 80% -- to help hire 700 officers in the first four years to work alongside mental health professionals. If elected, Butler said he would double the size of the police department’s gun recovery unit and develop an anti-loitering task force.
“They will not be given any arresting power but will be charged with powers of compassion to discern what these people need,” Butler said. “Predominantly Black men are loitering on the streets. This city has failed us with predominately Black leadership, and I will be a mayor that will tell you the truth and tell you exactly what it is – it’s failed leadership.”
Education
- Free tuition to the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) for residents with a qualified GPA
- Vocational programs in high schools
- Reworking the per-pupil budget model for DCPS
Butler said he's committed to earmarking funds for schools east of the Anacostia River that might not be measuring up currently.
Transportation
- Expanding the Benning Road Streetcar
- Free Metro rides for D.C. residents paid for by charging tourists an extra $.50 cents on rides
Butler also proposed making the Marion Barry Youth Jobs Program year-round and community recreation centers 24-hours with security provided by DC Police.
It’s an ambitious plan for a candidate who said he’s had to prove himself his whole career. Twenty years ago, Butler was forced to give up his law license after a failed law practice
“I also realized the fact that while traveling and running a business and practicing the law I didn’t do everything that I should have," Butler said. "I didn’t manage my staff like I should have. What I experienced is no different from what many Americans or marginalized people or black men or women in this country [experience]: a bump in the road. I know a lot of people had a bump in the road and they’re looking for a fighter a champion who understands that.”