2024 DC Primary Candidates- At-Large

Below are the responses from the candidates running for the At-Large seat in the District's 2024 Primary. The question proceeds each group of responses.

Candidate Rodney Red Grant is represented by RG
Candidate Robert White is represented by RW

Q1: What are your plans to make the District a more livable community for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, alike?
RG - The problem is nuanced so it requires a nuanced solution. There needs to be investment in protected bike lanes, rerouting dangerous intersections, adding speed humps in areas where fatalities are recorded and investment in our infrastructure. However, adding to existing programs like Metro Access or Vets Rides, or expanding bus routes, by increasing frequency of service, and improving connectivity are all necessary actions and part of the solution.

RW - Remind everyone “Speed kills” and “Twenty is plenty.” DC’s traffic planning must emphasize ways to reduce speed on roadways, for example, by narrowing traffic lanes and utilizing physical solutions such as raised crosswalks and protected bike lanes. In addition, plan multimodal solutions that protect pedestrians (particularly when they are entering and existing buses, and when they encounter speeding bicycles).


Q2: What policies do you support to protect older District residents and their ability to safely age in a place of their choosing?
RG - The best tool we have in DC for aging seniors to remain in their homes is the Department of Health Care Finance's Elderly and Persons with Physical Disabilities (EPD) Waiver. In home care is cheaper than institutionalized care and has been proven to extend and raise quality of life. Enhancing aide pay and participation for this program, is the solution. A hybrid internship program where students in DC public universities can earn credit for in home health hours should also be explored.

RW - I support DC Government programs that finance safety improvements in the homes of older residents with limited financial resources. In addition, I have sponsored legislation to allow several adults to thrive in the same home, as we have seen in the “Golden Girls” television show. I have also worked to improve maintenance at the DC Housing Authority, so residents can live there safely and with dignity.


Q3: What is your plan to increase access to stable, affordable, healthy food options, especially in “food deserts” located in Wards 7 and 8?
RG - DC is the most food insecure city in the nation for Seniors. SNAP should never be questioned in terms of its funding, we should be funding it further to reach more people and provide more benefits. We need to also invest in community supported nutritional efforts in Wards 7 and 8 which enhance local economies and provide opportunity to residents. Mobile grocery delivery options subsided through a Public-Private Partnership would enhance access to vulnerable communities with mobility issues too.

RW - I strongly support programs such as the ones that Martha’s Table administers to provide fresh produce to those who most need it. In addition, I work to achieve economic diversity so all neighborhoods have a base of consumers strong enough to support stores that sell produce. Finally, I support subsidies for placing produce stores and farmers markets in DC’s food deserts.


Q4: What policies would you put forth to reduce disparities among racial and ethnic groups in accessing affordable, high-quality healthcare?
RG - Wards 7 and 8 should not be forced to travel to receive health care. Access points in healthcare deserts need to be implemented. In home health option programs should be subsidized more so by the government, including raising the income cap on DC Medicaid and excluding certain benefits like VA Compensation. Virtual telehealth and in home appointments should also be subsidized or put forth via a Public-Private Partnership to enhance access to preventative care holistically.

RW - Particularly east of the Anacostia river, DC needs a health care network. The Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center is only a start. That hospital must be part of a health care system that includes neighborhood-based clinics, urgent care centers, pharmacies, and a wide variety of medical, dental and behavioral health providers. I will work to connect all providers into such a network.