WASHINGTON — A long-awaited endorsement from Ward 7 Councilmember and former Mayor Vince Gray has provided some insight on who he wants to succeed him in the hotly contested council race in D.C.
Gray tells WUSA9 that he wants Wendell Felder to fill his spot on the council. The veteran politician announced his retirement in December as he continues to recover from health issues including a stroke in 2021.
The race to replace Gray is one to watch in the District with a total of 10 candidates vying for the job. In a statement, Gray says Felder will be ready to lead the Ward on day one.
WUSA's Delia Goncalves caught up with Felder just moments after he received the Gray's support.
"This endorsement can put us over the top," Felder said. "I take nothing away from any of the other candidates. There have been articles about who the top four candidates are. However having the councilmember's endorsement can be what we need to continue to separate us from the rest of the pack."
D.C. residents can already mail in their ballots. Early in-person voting begins Sunday, May 26, and the primary is on June 4.
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