About Kameron
Hi, I’m Kameron Gaines-Gillens, a third-generation Washingtonian, Ward 7 resident, JD candidate, and lifelong advocate for securing full representation for the people of the District of Columbia.
I was born and raised in Washington, DC and educated in the District’s public charter school system, attending Perry Street Prep Public Charter School and Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science. Growing up in DC shaped my understanding of both the opportunities and challenges our communities face, and it instilled in me a deep commitment to public service and civic engagement.
I later earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from South Carolina State University, where I developed a strong interest in law, governance, and public policy. My academic journey ultimately led me back home to continue my education and pursue a career dedicated to serving the District.
Today, I am pursuing my Juris Doctor at University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law, the District’s namesake public law school and an institution rooted in the mission of expanding justice and opportunity for underserved communities. My legal studies focus on constitutional law, legislation, housing policy, and public governance—areas that directly affect the lives of District residents.
As a third generation Washingtonian and proud resident of Ward 7, I believe deeply in the promise and potential of our city. I am running to serve because the people of Washington, DC deserve full representation, stronger home rule, and leaders who will fight tirelessly for the rights and future of District residents.
For more than two centuries, the people of the District have paid federal taxes, served in the military, and contributed to our nation while being denied full voting representation in Congress. That injustice must end. I believe that through determined advocacy, regional partnerships, and a new generation of leadership, we can finally secure statehood and the democratic rights that DC residents deserve.
Washington, DC isn't just a place where I live, it's my home, my community, and the city that raised me. I am committed to fighting for a future where every Washingtonian has a voice, every neighborhood has opportunity, and the District finally stands as an equal member of our democracy.
OUR VISION & VALUES
Tri-state Advocacy
The path to statehood requires strong partnerships across the region. Washington, DC is deeply connected economically and socially with our neighbors in Maryland and Virginia, and building regional support will be essential to achieving lasting political change.
As Shadow Representative, I will work to build stronger relationships with leaders, organizations, and residents across the region to advocate for the admission of Washington, Douglass Commonwealth as the nation’s 51st state. That means coordinating advocacy efforts, supporting joint policy initiatives, and ensuring that our neighbors understand that DC statehood strengthens democracy for the entire region and the country.
Expansion of homerule
Washingtonians deserve the right to govern their own city without unnecessary interference from Congress. Under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, Congress still retains the authority to review and overturn laws passed by the Council of the District of Columbia. This system leaves the District vulnerable to political interference from lawmakers who do not live here and who are not accountable to DC residents.
As Shadow Representative, I will advocate for reforms that strengthen home rule by reducing or eliminating congressional override authority.
As Shadow Representative, I will advocate for reforms that strengthen home rule by reducing or eliminating congressional override authority.
ACCOUNTABLE REPRESENTATION
As the nation’s capital, Washington, DC serves millions of residents, commuters, and visitors every year. Yet the District often bears the financial burden of maintaining infrastructure that supports the entire federal government and regional economy. I will advocate for greater federal investment in transportation, public infrastructure, and modernization projects that strengthen the District’s future. This includes supporting improvements to systems like Washington Metro, expanding safe streets and transit infrastructure, and ensuring that the federal government contributes its fair share to maintaining the capital city it relies on.
Endorsements
"Kameron understands the issues our community faces every single day. His dedication to DC statehood isn't just talk—it's action that we desperately need in our representative."
- Community Member
"We need a representative who listens and leads with equity at the forefront. Kameron Gaines-Gillens is the leader our city deserves for the future of D.C."
- Community Member
"Accountability and transparency are critical in this fight. Kameron has proven he is committed to both as he advocates for our dignity and statehood."