Washington, D.C. — The federal bribery trial of Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White was postponed on Friday, September 11, 2026, as jury selection remains underway. White entered a not‑guilty plea to a single count of federal bribery that carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
The postponement means the case will continue beyond the originally scheduled date, though the exact timeline has not been set. Court officials indicated that the delay is procedural, tied to the ongoing selection of jurors, and no further details about the new trial date were released.
White’s indictment alleges that he engaged in conduct that violates federal bribery statutes. The charge, if proven, could lead to his removal from the D.C. Council, a consequence that underscores the seriousness of the allegations. The potential removal stems from the city’s rules that disqualify members convicted of certain felonies.
Legal experts note that a conviction on the single bribery count would expose White to the full statutory maximum of 15 years behind bars, though sentencing would depend on the court’s assessment of the facts and any mitigating factors. The case remains pending, and White’s defense has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The continuation of jury selection suggests that the court is moving toward finalizing the trial roster before setting a new hearing date. Until the trial commences, White retains his council seat, but the pending charge hangs over his political future. Authorities have not indicated any additional charges or related investigations at this time.
The delayed trial marks another development in a case that has attracted attention from both local constituents and federal prosecutors, highlighting the intersection of municipal governance and federal law enforcement.