Dear Mayor Bowser and Members of the Council,

I urge you to consider a bold, community-driven alternative to cheerleading the return of the Washington Commanders to the RFK Stadium site. I urge you to slow the process down and add thorough analysis.

This moment presents a historic opportunity—not just to host an NFL franchise, but to redefine how public investments can build generational Black wealth, expand our middle class, and bring lasting equity to the District of Columbia.

Rather than allocating up to $2 billion in public funds for a new stadium, I propose a forward-looking strategy: the District of Columbia acquires a 26% ownership stake in the Washington Commanders by buying out all remaining limited partners.

Strategic Rationale:
NFL ownership rules require one person (Josh Harris) to control 30%. His closest partners, Mitchell Rales and David Blitzer, likely hold a combined 44%.

That leaves approximately 26% held by minority partners, which DC could acquire for an estimated $1.452–$1.597 billion with a 10% return on investment.

“We are offering a streamlined, full-cash buyout with a 10% ROI. Our approach values each partner’s role in this historic group while providing immediate liquidity and simplicity+ at an attractive premium.”

✅Optional Deal Enhancements:

✅Deferred tax-handling assistance
✅First-look rights on future equity sales
✅Joint philanthropic initiatives focused on youth, workforce development, and housing.

With this stake, DC would gain:

1.    A board seat and voting power
2.    Oversight rights on community engagement, real estate, and DEI initiatives
3.    Right of first refusal and tag-along rights in any future sale

This creates measurable community benefits, allows us to construct a new stadium without imposing risky taxpayer subsidies, and positions the District as a national model for inclusive economic development.

For decades, we've seen $1 leases and sweetheart deals generate massive profits on the backs of taxpayers. Let’s reject "small ball." The District deserves to own equity, build power, and lead the future of civic innovation in American cities.

Sincerely,

Ernest E. Johnson
Candidate for the Democratic Nomination for Mayor of the District of Columbia
Chairman, Friends of the Frank Reeves Center
B.S., University of Maryland Global Campus | M.A. Candidate, Harvard University