The **District of Columbia Council** is the central legislative body governing Washington, D.C., tasked with creating laws, overseeing city agencies, and shaping policies to improve the quality of life for residents. It operates as the chief policy-making authority and plays a critical role in budget approval and fiscal oversight, ensuring the city government maintains a balanced budget[1][2][3]. Established under the Home Rule Act of 1973, the Council gained authority in 1975 when Congress devolved powers typically held by city councils and state legislatures to it. Despite this, Congress retains ultimate authority over the district and can review, amend, or overturn Council legislation[3][9]. The Council convenes in the John A. Wilson Building in downtown D.C.[3]. The Council consists of 13 members: eight represent individual wards, and five are elected at-large. The Chairperson, one of the at-large members, holds additional leadership responsibilities, such as appointing committee chairs and guiding legislative priorities[2][6]. The Council operates through 11 committees that focus on specific areas such as public safety, budgeting, education, and economic development, enabling targeted oversight of city departments and agencies[6]. Key achievements of the Council include advancing education reforms, promoting safer neighborhoods, and implementing innovative programs to foster a vibrant local economy. The Council collaborates closely with the Mayor—who acts as the city’s chief executive—to enact laws, oversee government operations, and approve a nearly $20 billion annual budget[1][2][4]. It also provides constituent services, addressing resident concerns and ensuring government responsiveness[1]. Notable aspects of the Council include its unique dual role: functioning as both a city legislature and a state-level legislature because D.C. is a federal district, not a state. This status subjects the Council to congressional oversight, a distinctive limitation compared to other U.S. cities. Additionally, the Council’s structure limits partisan dominance by restricting party nominations for at-large seats[4]. I