Building a Ward 5 worthy of us all
Stronger schools. Safer neighborhoods. Real opportunity for every family.
I’m Zachary Parker, and I’m running for re-election to keep delivering results for Ward 5: strengthening our schools, expanding opportunity, and making sure every neighbor is seen, heard, and supported.
Why I’m Running for Re-election
The District is changing, and Ward 5 is changing with it. We’ve made real progress in recent years, from stronger investments in our schools to better support for working families. But as our city grows and shifts, too many neighbors are feeling left behind, priced out, or unheard. There is still more work to do to make sure change works for everyone, not just a few. I’m running for re-election to keep delivering results and to provide steady, responsive leadership during a moment of real change for our city.
Delivering Real Progress for Ward 5
Stronger Schools & Youth Investment: Protected and expanded funding for every Ward 5 public school and youth programs so every child has a real chance to succeed.
Support for Working Families: Passed the Child Tax Credit, fought for good-paying union jobs that put money back in the pockets of Ward 5 families, and brought thousands of affordable housing units online.
Responsive Constituent Services: Provided hands-on help to thousands of Ward 5 neighbors navigating housing, benefits, and city services.
Results-Driven Leadership: Advanced transformative legislation, created new community parks, helped bring new grocery stores online, and stood as a consistent advocate for equity, affordability, and protecting DC’s autonomy from congressional interference.
My Priorities For a Second Term
Combat Poverty: Growing the District’s economy and advancing policies to expand deeply affordable housing, strengthen rental assistance, lower everyday costs like childcare and utilities, and address longstanding racial and economic inequities.
Education & Youth: Strengthening public schools by addressing chronic absenteeism, improving facilities and school support systems, and expanding out-of-school-time programs and career pathways so every young person has the opportunity to succeed.
Neighborhoods That Work for Everyone: Guiding smart, equitable growth by advancing housing and economic development along Ward 5’s major corridors — Rhode Island Avenue, North Capitol Street, and 12th Street — while shaping the Comprehensive Plan to ensure growth delivers affordability, amenities, and opportunity for current residents.
Healthy Communities: Combating environmental injustice in neighborhoods like Ivy City and Brentwood, improving air quality, expanding green space, and advocating for safer streets and infrastructure that supports a higher quality of life for all Ward 5 residents.
Endorsements
I am proud to be the consensus candidate in the Ward 5 race.
DC Construction Workers
DC LGBTQ+ Residents and Advocates
DC Jewish Advocates
DC Latino Advocates
DC Restaurant and Hospitality Workers
DC Working Families and Advocates
Bike, Walk, and Bus PAC
DC Business Community
DC Environmental Advocates
DC Metro Labor Council (AFL-CIO)
