Office of Campaign Finance Issues Order in the Matter of Phil Mendelson and Mendelson for Chairman 2026

The Office of Campaign Finance (OCF) has issued a formal Order in the matter of Phil Mendelson and the Mendelson for Chairman 2026 Principal Campaign Committee, Docket No. OCF FI 2026-005. The Order follows a complaint filed on April 2, 2026, alleging the use of District government resources for campaign-related purposes.

After review of the complaint, supporting documentation, and the respondent's written admission, OCF determined that District of Columbia Council Chair Phil Mendelson violated D.C. Official Code § 1-1163.36(a) and Title 3 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations § 3301. These provisions prohibit the use of government resources to support or oppose any candidate for public office.

In accordance with 3 DCMR § 3711.2(w), which establishes a $4,000 penalty for the use of District government resources for campaign-related activities, OCF has imposed a $4,000 fine against Chairman Mendelson and the Mendelson for Chairman 2026 Principal Campaign Committee.

Additionally, the Order directs Chairman Mendelson to register for and complete Ethics Training through the Board of Ethics and Government Accountability.

The full Order is available on the OCF website.