Q&A with Ward 8 candidate Mike Austin

Part of our Ward 8 voters guide

What made you decide to run for this position? (response provided in an email)

“I decided to run for the Ward 8 Council seat, because I am frustrated with the lack of progress in the Ward. We haven’t adequately addressed crime, or created economic pathways for our most vulnerable residents. Ward 8 continues to lead in unemployment, lack of home ownership opportunities, and we have been stagnant about closing the achievement gap for our young people. As an attorney, ANC Chair, and former Legislative Director, I have the experience and proven ability to move the Ward forward. I love Ward 8, this is where I grew up, and it is where I will raise my family.”

What differentiates you from the others in the race? (response provided in an email)

“I am the most qualified candidate in the race because of my legal background, my legislative and management experience, and my ability to make government work for everyone. I am an experienced negotiator with a wide-ranging background that will help solve some of Ward 8’s most serious challenges; from working as a hospital Vice President and understanding Ward 8’s health disparities, to working on the DC Infrastructure Academy, understanding Ward 8’s workforce challenges; I am a problem-solver, a community servant, and committed to bold, inclusive policies.”

What do you hope to accomplish in this position if elected? (response provided in an email)

“I will fight to decrease crime with a public health approach, create economic pathways to reduce unemployment, equitably fund our schools, and responsibly develop our community inclusively, so that residents are not displaced and can enjoy new amenities.”

What are the top three issues you would focus on if elected?

1. Reducing crime: “Through creating economic pathways.”
2. Strengthening the workforce: “Being proactive in how we attract our workforce.”
3. Education: “We’ve got 17 schools underfunded. … Not only are they taking deep budget cuts, but they’re seeing an increase in students. … They’re doing more with less. … I want to get students ready for college or the workforce. … I’m going to push for equitable funding for our schools. … We have schools sharing nurses. I’m frustrated with that.”