FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 14, 2026
Washington Teachers’ Union Endorses Janeese Lewis George for Mayor
Washington, D.C. — The Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) proudly announces its endorsement of Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George for Mayor of the District of Columbia in the upcoming Democratic Primary on June 16, 2026. This endorsement reflects WTU’s commitment to supporting leaders who prioritize public education, equity, and the well-being of educators and students across the District.
Lewis George, a third-generation DC resident and DCPS graduate, has demonstrated unwavering dedication to strengthening public schools. As a Councilmember and chair of the Committee on Facilities, she has championed initiatives to improve school infrastructure, secure funding for critical positions such as librarians, and advocated for fair teacher contracts. Her leadership has been instrumental in passing legislation like the Work Order Integrity Act, ensuring that school-based staff have a voice in determining when facilities are ready for teaching and learning.
“Our educators are the most important factor in the educational experiences of students,” said Lewis George. “As mayor, I will continue working with WTU to ensure our schools are safe environments for productive learning and working. I’ll also build upon my relationships with WTU and our teachers to ensure they have a seat at the table as we develop a more coherent, fair, and transparent budget for our schools so that every student, in every Ward can learn and thrive.”
Lewis George's priorities as Mayor also include:
- Reducing teacher turnover through reforms to evaluation systems, housing assistance, and wellness programs.
- Expanding recruitment of Black male educators and bilingual teachers.
- Ensuring full compliance with school funding laws, including "at-risk" and ELL student support.
- Modernizing and maintaining school facilities with transparency and accountability.
- Building a stronger teacher pipeline and restoring visa support for international educators.
- Expanding after-school programming in all eight wards because she knows firsthand how critical safe, enriching programming is for young people.
WTU President Laura Fuchs stated: “The WTU's endorsement of Janeese was one of the easiest decisions we have made. Since before her first run for DC Council, Janeese has fought for educators, students and our public school communities. Her belief in democratic governance of our schools, commitment to funding needed positions like school librarians, and fighting against the closure of Washington Met are just a few of the reasons the WTU will stand with Janeese in her run for Mayor. Janeese is the candidate for people who care about young people and education.”
The WTU urges all members and community stakeholders to vote in the DC Democratic Primary on June 16, 2026, and support Janeese Lewis George for Mayor.
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About the Washington Teachers’ Union
The WTU represents more than 5,000 active and retired teachers. It is dedicated to social and educational justice for the students of the District of Columbia and to improving the quality of support, resources, compensation and working conditions for the public servants and proud teachers who educate our students in D.C. Public Schools. Learn more at www.WTULocal6.net.
For media inquiries, contact:
Akua Tay
Communications Specialist
Washington Teachers' Union
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 412-8008
Amanda Michelle Gomez
Communications Director
Janeese Lewis George for DC Mayor campaign
Phone: (202) 709-6176