Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Culture

How a Socialist Can Govern a City Under the Thumb of the Trump Administration

Janeese Lewis George is part of a new class of socialist mayors. Unlike her peers, she’ll be running a city under federal rule. The post How a Socialist Can Govern a City Under the Thumb of the Trump Administration appeared first on The Intercept .

How a Socialist Can Govern a City Under the Thumb of the Trump Administration

Janeese Lewis George, a socialist city councilmember, will lead Washington, D.C., under federal control. D.C. is a federal district, subject to presidential and congressional oversight. Lewis George plans to introduce reforms focusing on affordability, including tenant protections, affordable childcare, and zoning law changes. To fulfill her campaign promises, she must secure congressional approval for local bills, a process that includes a 30-day review for civil legislation and 60 days for criminal bills.

If disapproved, Congress can send the bill to the president for veto or sign, granting it effect. Voted in due to a desire for strong leadership focused on D.C. residents, Lewis George's success will depend on convincing Congress to support her agenda and the city council to pass her proposed tax increases on businesses and wealthy residents.

D.C. faces a $1.1 billion budget deficit due to congressional restrictions. Lewis George hopes to prioritize immigrant advocacy and civil rights, including limiting ICE cooperation and allowing residents to sue officers who violate constitutional rights.

Written by urgent.news from The Intercept's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

This story

This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.

Read the original at theintercept.com →

More in Culture

How to Keep an Open Mind

We’re human, so it’s not possible or even realistic to expect that every belief we hold is accurate, writes Joan M. Cook.

More from Saturday 7 November →