WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- A DC City Council member is calling for the resignation of the DC Taxicab Commission Chair, after he "defended racism," according to the Councilman.
During a Russ Ptacek investigation, Commission Chair Ron Linton told Ptacek that it's not racism when cab drivers choose not to pick up black passengers, "it's economics," Linton said.
Council Member Tommy Wells (D-Ward 6) said Linton's comments are unacceptable.
"There is a bright line here - calling it 'economic' is a defense of racism," said Wells. "It is disgusting and it has no place in our government. Ron Linton needs to go. Everybody should have equal access to taxis and transportation in our city regardless of their skin color or where they live," Wells said in a news release.
Wells, who announced he is running for Mayor last month, is challenging current Mayor Vincent Gray to do something about Linton.