This post was written by Hatchet reporters Kiara Bhagwanjee, Jefferson Caves and Katie Kamins.
At-Large Council member David Catania conceded the mayoral race to Democrat Muriel Bowser on Tuesday night at the Longview Gallery, in the same place where he celebrated marriage equality five years ago.
Catania spoke to a room of more than 100 supporters as he conceded defeat to Bowser. An Independent, he was consistently trailing in the polls during the race and congratulated Bowser on her win to the groans of the audience.
“I know we can do better, and we will do better whether I am the mayor or Ms. Bowser is the mayor,” Catania said. “This city has enduring strengths, and they’re in this room.”
The atmosphere was hopeful during the night, with the room maintaining optimism even after Catania admitted defeat. Supporters broke into applause for Catania, at times chanting his name. Campaign workers, family members and voters surrounded the Council member as he gave his 15-minute speech, much of which was spent thanking his staff.
He addressed his continuing fight in what many considered an unwinnable race, and why he decided to run for mayor in the first place.
“It’s to send a message. Not all fights are easy and not all fights are winnable, but the important thing is to fight,” Catania said.
One supporter, Jim Mease, said he backed Catania to “get away from the Democratic machine.”
“[He would have been] better for the schools, for education, for housing infrastructure,” Mease said. “He’s an Independent and he would’ve brought change to the District.”
Jimmy Campbell, Catania’s neighbor, said while he’s disappointed Catania lost, he’ll make a point to support Bowser as mayor.
“Sometimes the candidate you support and you believe in doesn’t win, but tomorrow morning we’ll wake up and Muriel Bowser will be our mayor and we’ll all do the best to support her and hold her accountable” Campbell said.
Catania ended the night asking his supporters to embrace Bowser.
“My last request to each of you is to never end that spirit of never giving up and offer that service to our new mayor so that she succeeds, because when she succeeds we all succeed,” he said.
