The District Council is the legislative branch of the District of Columbia, responsible for enacting laws, approving the budget, and monitoring the executive branch. This unicameral body, similar to the Nebraska Legislature, is composed of thirteen members. Four are elected at-large, as is the president, and eight are elected from one of the eight districts of the District. The Council has the power to create, abolish or reorganize any agency of the District and works year-round, with a summer recess from mid-July to mid-September. Judges of the DC Court of Appeals and the DC Superior Court are appointed by the President of the United States, the Mayor of DC, the Council of DC, the chief judge of the United States District Court and the DC Bar Association. The role of local government in Washington DC politics is indispensable for guaranteeing that laws are passed and budgets are approved in a timely manner.
It is also responsible for providing oversight to make sure that executive branch decisions are in line with local laws and regulations. By providing a platform for citizens to express their opinions and concerns, local government helps to ensure that all voices are heard and represented in Washington DC politics.
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