The Government of Washington, D.C., operates under a mayor–council structure established by the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973. The executive branch is led by the Mayor, currently Muriel Bowser, who oversees city services, public property, police and fire protection, public schools, transportation, and a broad network of agencies and departments.

Supporting the Mayor are five Deputy Mayors responsible for key portfolios: Education; Health & Human Services; Planning & Economic Development; Public Safety & Justice; and Operations & Infrastructure. These Deputy Mayors oversee dozens of subordinate agencies, including the DC Department of Transportation (DDOT), DC DMV, DC Public Works, DC Health, DC Public Schools, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS), and many more.

The legislative branch is the 13-member Council of the District of Columbia. It includes eight ward-based members, four at-large members, and a Council Chair—all elected by residents. The Council meets at the John A. Wilson Building, drafts local legislation, approves the budget, and conducts oversight. However, under the Home Rule Act, all legislation and the budget are subject to review by the U.S. Congress.

The judicial branch consists of the DC Superior Court and the DC Court of Appeals—both courts are part of the federal judiciary. Judges are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

In addition, there are numerous independent and quasi-governmental agencies such as the DC Public