Know Before You Vote!

The District’s June 4th primary election is right around the corner! This election will determine who is on the ballot in November for one At-Large Councilmember seat; Councilmembers for Wards 2, 4, 7 and 8; among other offices.

People over the age of 50 are our nation’s most powerful voters – and once again, you will be the deciders in the 2024 elections. That is why AARP DC wants to make sure you have reliable information before you cast your ballot.

Using AARP research and survey data, AARP DC created a questionnaire for all candidates listed on the primary ballot for DC Council to share their vision on issues that matter to older District residents. We compiled their responses on issues including:

Transportation
Transportation safety for people of all ages, particularly older adults, is an increasing concern in the District. According to AARP Research, 88% of District residents 45-plus said that “getting to the places you need to go independently” is important to them. There were 52 traffic fatalities in 2023, setting a 16-year high. Unfortunately, in 2024 the number of fatalities has already risen to 10 in the first 3 months. We asked the candidates what their plans are to make the District a more livable community for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, alike.

Housing
In 2022, 85% of District residents 45-plus said that “staying in your own home as you get older” was of importance to them. We asked the candidate what policies they support to protect older District residents and their ability to safely age in a place of their choosing.

Accessing nutritious food
Ensuring older District residents have access to affordable, health food options is a top priority. We wanted to know what the candidate’s plan was to increase access to stable, affordable, healthy food options, especially in “food deserts” located in Wards 7 and 8?

Health disparities
According to AARP research and survey data, there is a 15-year gap in life expectancy between those living in Ward 3 (86 years old) and Ward 8 (71 years old), and residents 40-plus living east of the river are about four times as likely to face barriers to accessing health care services in their community. The candidates were asked what policies they would put forth to reduce disparities among racial and ethnic groups in accessing affordable, high-quality healthcare.

AARP DC encourages you to learn as much as you can about the candidates and issues, then make your decision by voting.

AARP is non-partisan, does not operate a political action committee (PAC) and does not endorse candidates. We focus on the issues that are most important to older District residents.

The voices of people over 50 will decide this election. But your voices won’t be heard if you don’t vote. Be the person who is committed to speaking up, voting, and holding elected leaders accountable.

Everything you need to know about where the candidates for DC Council stand on these issues can be found by visiting www.aarp.org/DCPrimary.

Be a Decider and vote. Your future depends on it.