On November 3, 1998, Washington, D.C., held an election for its mayor. The Democratic candidate, Anthony A. Williams, defeated Republican candidate Carol Schwartz. The parties' primary elections had been held on September 15, 1998.
Councilwoman Carol Schwartz won the Republican nomination as the only candidate on the primary ballot. Former US Senator from South Dakota Larry Pressler considered a run for mayor but ultimately decided against it.