The D.C. Democratic primary is coming up Sept. 14 and two city council races are becoming more heated. Harold Brazil (shown here), who is defending his at-large city council seat from two Democratic challengers in the upcoming party primary, has taken the offensive, the W.Times reports. The campaign of the 14-year council vet sent out a mass mailer highlighting the fact that one challenger Kwame Brown as never voted in a District election.

Though Brazil has not targeted the other Democratic challenger, Sam Brooks, many are viewing this race as Brazil’s toughest, in a year where scandal and corruption accusations have been lobbed at him.

But the most exciting race is across the Anacostia River. In Ward 8, former Mayor Marion Barry, looking to recapture his old council seat, has been on the picnic circuit. Barry has been ignoring questions about his past and addiction.

From the W.Times:

A prostate cancer survivor who has diabetes and high blood pressure, Mr. Barry appeared thin and walked with the labored gait of an elderly man. He wore his trademark straw plantation hat, a blue print shirt, khaki pants, sunglasses, snakeskin sandals and a gold Rolex watch.

“I got my summer beach outfit,” he said.