Washington, D.C. – The D.C. Council officially swore in Jamal Holtz, a fourth‑generation Washingtonian, as the interim at‑large member on Nov. 9, according to the Washington Informer. Holtz’s appointment fills the vacancy left by former Delegate‑elect Robert White, whose resignation was required by federal law, and ensures the council can address a packed legislative agenda that includes solar energy, noise complaints, and education matters.
The ceremony, conducted by Council Chair Phil Mendelson, concluded a brief dispute between the D.C. Democratic Party and Councilmember Christina Henderson, who attempted to change her party affiliation on Election Day. Party insiders warned that Henderson’s switch could have pushed the council past the charter‑mandated limit of three Democratic at‑large seats. The Democratic Party secured the interim seat by selecting Holtz on Nov. 5, before the Board of Elections confirmed Henderson’s affiliation change.
Holtz, who learned of his appointment only four days before the swearing‑in, told reporters he is focusing on catching up with the council’s agenda. He highlighted the broader issue of D.C. residents lacking full voting rights in Congress, calling it a “real and very serious truth” that should trouble every legislator in the chamber.
Before joining the council, Holtz chaired the D.C. Young Democrats and served as chief of staff at LINK Strategic Partners. He is an alumnus of Friendship Collegiate Academy Public Charter School and the University of Rochester, where he studied as a POSSE scholar. Holtz also spent time as a youth city administrator in the Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute.
The swearing‑in attracted a standing‑room‑only crowd, including all council members except Ward 4 Councilmember and Mayor‑elect Janeese Lewis George. Former council members Harry Thomas Jr., Brandon Todd, and Tommy Wells, along with Attorney General Brian Schwalb, Parks and Recreation director Thennie Freeman, and other community leaders, were present. Rev. Norm Nixon offered the invocation, and Holtz’s orientation classmates—Councilmembers‑elect Aparna Raj and Dr. Oye Owolewa—watched from the gallery.
According to the Washington Informer, the District Board of Elections has set the special election for the Democratic at‑large seat for April 6, 2027. The D.C. Democratic Party has indicated that its search for a permanent interim council member will continue, though no timeline has been provided. Holtz said he has not applied for the position and is committed to supporting the party’s open selection process while serving in the interim role.
Sources: washingtoninformer.com
