Volume I
Volume I
All 22 Volumes of Delegate Sullivan's Weekly
Flip-a-District friday Emails
can be found below.
flip-a-district fridays:
volume I
“As Campaign Chair for the House Democrats my mission is to get as many Democrats as possible elected this November. It’s why I started Project Blue Dominion — to raise awareness and funds to boost our campaign efforts across Virginia.
To keep you updated on our work, every Friday, Project Blue Dominion will highlight races that need our help. You’ll get to learn more about the candidates, their districts, and why it’s so important that we help them defeat their Republican opponents.”
Meet the candidate: Hala Ayala
Hala Ayala is running to represent the 51st House District of Virginia. She is a former cybersecurity specialist with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and an outspoken advocate for women and families. She has fought for raising the minimum wage, Medicaid expansion and equal pay for equal work as the founder and President of the Prince William County chapter of the National Organization for Women.
House District 51:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 7 percent of the vote. The 51st encompasses Prince William County, and is currently represented by Rich Anderson (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Rich has to go:
He is staunchly anti-refugee at a time when our legislators need to show leadership in compassion. Del. Anderson introduced a bill last session that would require charities and those working with refugees to report to local and state politicians exactly when and where refugees choose to resettle. This would target an already at-risk population for intimidation and harassment by their former oppressors.
Contact the campaign: shuyen.wei@gmail.com
Karrie Delaney
Meet the candidate: Karrie Delaney
Karrie started working at a group home for foster children - an experience where she learned how policy decisions can either serve or fail our most vulnerable. Later, as a crisis counselor, Karrie stood by women who were assaulted and raised awareness about the abuse of women around the world. When Karrie became a mother, she turned her focus towards local issues as Gov. McAuliffe's appointee to the Virginia Commission on Youth, as well as former Chair of Fairfax County Citizens Corps Council and the current Chair of Fairfax County Library Board of Trustees. She lives in Chantilly with her husband, Patrick, and their two children.
House District 67:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 58 percent of the vote. The 67th encompasses parts of Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, and is currently represented by Jim LeMunyon (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Jim has to go:
He is attempting to suppress the vote in Virginia. Last session, Del. LeMunyon introduced a constitutional amendment that would require citizens to provide their social security numbers on their voter registration applications -- we need less hurdles to voting, not more to make democracy more representative.
Contact the campaign: will@karriedelaney.com
Chris Hurst
Meet the candidate: Chris Hurst
"I’ve dedicated my life to public service and giving a voice to the people of southwest Virginia. When I came here almost a decade ago as a reporter, I quickly identified with our shared values of strong families, a strong faith and personal integrity. I fell in love with the Blue Ridge Mountains and the people living in small towns with big hearts.
As a journalist, I’ve been a fierce advocate for families struggling for access to mental health care and equality in education for students with special needs. I’ve investigated reasons why our workforce must adapt for the careers of the future. I’ve documented the dramatic rise of child abuse and opioid addiction. And I’ve held government leaders accountable while showing how our first responders are left without vital resources.
I decided to leave journalism and run for office after recovering from profound tragedy. In 2015, I was just beginning a new life with my late girlfriend, Alison Parker. Alison and Adam Ward’s murder on television shocked the country and set me on a different path. My career in news was fulfilling but instead of asking questions, I became focused on finding solutions. Your continued prayers and support now give me the strength to move forward and be a courageous fighter for all Virginians." - Chris
House District 12:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 47 percent of the vote. The 12th encompasses parts of Montgomery, Giles, Radford and Pulaski Counties, and is currently represented by Joseph Yost (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Joseph has to go:
He opposes Medicaid expansion. Despite the fact that around 3,700 of his constituents would benefit from more affordable access to much needed medical care, Del. Yost has chosen his party over Virginia's most vulnerable populations.
Contact the campaign: info@hurst4delegate.com
Meet the candidate: Kathy Tran
Kathy Tran and her parents fled Vietnam as boat refugees when she was just seven months old. Although many other countries offered them asylum, they waited 13 months for the United States to accept their application. For Kathy’s family, this country has always represented hope, opportunity and freedom. Now, she's running for the House of Delegates because she couldn’t just stand by while Donald Trump and Virginia Republicans dismantle the ideals that brought her family here.
House District 42:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 57 percent of the vote. The 42nd encompasses parts of Fairfax County, and is currently represented by David Albo (R). However, Del. Albo is retiring, so the Republican opponent this fall will be Lolita Mancheno-Smoak (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Lolita must not win:
She is a Republican hard-liner and Fairfax County Republican Party Vice Chairman who backs the Trump agenda. Not only did Lolita publicly fan the flames of debunked conspiracy theories surrounding Secretary Clinton last year, but she literally tweeted that Donald Trump was her "ideal Presidential candidate" the day he announced that he was running.
Contact the campaign: noah@kathyfordelegate.com
Volume II
Volume II
flip-a-district fridays:
volume II
KELLY FOWLER
Meet the candidate: Kelly Fowler
Kelly Fowler is running for Delegate in the 21st district. She used to teach 3rd grade at Lynnhaven Elementary in Virginia Beach. Kelly now leads a team of women in real estate, specializing in military relocation. Kelly and her husband Dave were raised in the 21st District in military families and are now raising their two daughters there, as well.
Kelly is on the Board of Directors of her Home Owners Association and is an active volunteer in the Hampton Roads region. She is passionate about fairness and ensuring that government is inclusive for all people. Kelly is an energetic, progressive leader who will make a difference in the community when she is the Delegate for District 21!
House District 21:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 4 percent of the vote. The 21st encompasses Virginia Beach City and Chesapeake City. It is currently represented by Ron Villanueva (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Ron has to go:
Ron supported an extremist Republican bill that would require Virginia residents to prove citizenship before registering to vote. Voters who could not provide a birth certificate or U.S. passport would not be allowed to vote in state elections, though they could vote in federal elections. The bill would have disenfranchised thousands of Virginia voters who are U.S. citizens but who do not have a passport or a copy of their birth certificate. Lots of folks don't have either of those documents: young people, older people, people who don't (or can't afford to) travel. This bill would have rendered them second-class citizens.
Contact the campaign: shuyen.wei@gmail.com
ELIZABETH GUZMAN
Meet the candidate: Elizabeth Guzman
Elizabeth Guzman is the Democratic candidate for the House of Delegates in District 31. Elizabeth immigrated to America from Peru as a single mother looking for a better future for her daughter Pamela. At first, she juggled three jobs just to afford a one-bedroom apartment. But through hard work, perseverance, and dedication, she put herself through college and graduate school. She is now a social worker and public administrator for the City of Alexandria, where she works everyday helping hardworking families to help achieve their American Dream. She currently lives with her husband Carlos and 3 children in Dale City of Prince William County.
Elizabeth is running for office so she can represent the community of Prince William and Fauquier County and help others achieve the American Dream. As an immigrant, her values are the values of all Democrats, and she has volunteered in the Democratic Party for several years as an advocate for every Virginian in her community. If elected, she would be the first Latina elected to the Virginia legislature.
House District 31:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 7 percent of the vote. The 31st encompasses parts of Prince William and Fauquier Counties, and is currently represented by Scott Lingamfelter (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Scott has to go:
Scott is in the pocket of the NRA. There have been far too many deaths by gun violence in Virginia -- more guns on the streets is not the answer, but instead is a recipe for more senseless tragedy. Despite this fact, Scott repeatedly introduced legislation to repeal Virginia's one-gun-a-month purchase limitation until it became law in 2012. The 31st District deserves someone who isn't the poster child for an extremist pro-gun group.
Contact the campaign: elizabeth@elizabethguzmanforvirginia.com
DAVID REID
Meet the candidate: David Reid
David Reid is a decorated Navy veteran and business professional who brings over 30 years of experience in strategic management, global telecommunications, and the defense industry to his campaign to represent Virginia’s 32 House of Delegates District in Eastern Loudoun County. In 1972, David and his siblings moved from Rockbridge County, Virginia—where they lived in a four-room house without an indoor bathroom—to the United Methodist Children’s Home in Richmond. David was later adopted by foster parents and moved to Oklahoma. He became the first member of his family to graduate from college.
Grateful for the opportunities his country had provided him, David heeded the call to give back by joining the Navy Reserve. David served 23 years in the US Navy Reserve, as a Naval Intelligence Officer, where he retired as a Commander. David and his wife of 23 years have lived in Ashburn since 2000. Their two daughters received an outstanding education at Loudoun County Public Schools and now attend the University of Virginia and Lynchburg College.
House District 32:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 19 percent of the vote. The 32nd encompasses Loudoun County, and is currently represented by Tag Greason (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Tag has to go:
Tag is staunchly anti-choice, despite the fact that 67 percent of Virginians support protecting a woman’s right to access safe and legal abortion care. Tag voted this session for a resolution that would annually designate January 22nd as a “Day of Tears” in Virginia. January 22nd might ring a bell: it’s the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision 40 years ago. The resolution encourages Virginians to fly their flags at half-mast on January 22nd. It's demeaning and is essentially code for a "Day of Shaming."
Contact the campaign: reidfordelegate@gmail.com
ZACK WITTKAMP
Meet the candidate: Zack Wittkamp
Zack Wittkamp is a father, husband, business owner, and community leader. His primary focus in running for office is to improve quality education, foster a strong economic base, and to preserve our environment and precious natural resources like the Chesapeake Bay. His expertise is in creating the organizational framework for businesses—the building blocks that ultimately allow a business to succeed and become a partner in the community. Zack believes we have to take a good hard look at the programs that make up our government and be willing to start over if they aren’t working. “The world changed on November 8, 2016,” he says. “People want a voice, and they want a government that works for them. I think that’s what we all deserve, for ourselves and our children."
Zack grew up in Newport News and is grateful for the opportunities the City and community has offered to him. He serves on the Newport News Planning Commission, where he helps guide and shape what the city will become in the future. He is a 1999 graduate of Randolph Macon College. Zack and his wife, Allie, a Vice President at Towne Bank, live in Newport News with their five-year- old daughter, Larkin.
House District 94:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 5 percent of the vote. The 94th encompasses parts of Newport News City and is currently represented by David Yancey (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why David needs to go:
David voted against workers rights and fair pay when he voted for HB 1753, a partisan Republican bill that would have stopped local governments from requiring contractors to establish a minimum wage while carrying out contracts with their localities. Local governments should have the power to set their own terms when entering into contracts for local public works -- the result is better performance, lower turnover, and better service to the area and to the public. Fortunately, Governor McAuliffe vetoed this anti-worker bill.
Contact the campaign: brian@votewittkamp.com
Volume III
Volume III
flip-a-district fridays:
volume III
DAWN ADAMS
Meet the candidate: Dawn Adams
Dr. Dawn Adams has worked with and advocated for healthy communities for over 30 years as a nurse, a nurse practitioner and an educator. She currently serves as the Director for the Office of Integrated Health for the Virginia Department for Behavioral Health & Developmental Services. In this role, she manages a multi-million-dollar state budget directed at creating new services for the developmentally disabled. In addition, she works with community and statewide stakeholders to create health-related policy proposals for submission to the General Assembly.
Dr. Adams also serves as adjunct professor teaching Health Policy to Doctoral students at Old Dominion University. As a nurse, Dawn has seen first-hand how our state’s most vulnerable citizens continually fall through the cracks as a result of limited healthcare access and coverage. Her own Doctoral research focused on identifying barriers to healthcare access for all people across the economic spectrum, for which she received the ODU Nursing Scholar award. As she studied and worked intimately in medicine, it became abundantly clear to Dawn that the right to affordable public education and access to adequate healthcare are inextricably linked—both necessary and critical to building healthy, successful communities.
When asked why she is running, Dr. Adams stated, "I believe our Commonwealth is a community and the health of the Commonwealth is reflected by the interdependence of healthy resources available to our citizens. Specifically, the availability of safe, clean, food, air, water and land; access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare, access to the opportunities of quality education, economic growth, and jobs that pay a living wage. It is through the appropriate utilization of these resources that all Virginians can live, learn, work, and play in ways that positively impact the quality of their lives."
House District 68:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 10 percent of the vote. The 68th encompasses parts of Chesterfield County, Richmond City, and Henrico County. It is currently represented by Manoli Loupassi (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Manoli has to go:
Manoli is on the wrong side of the health care debate. As a member of the House Commerce and Labor Committee, he has consistently helped to push through partisan bills that would undo key health care protections for Virginians. For example, Manoli voted both in committee and on the House floor for a bill (HB 2411) that would repeal all laws passed by the General Assembly to implement the Affordable Care Act. He also backed a bill (HB 2322) last session that would eliminate "essential health benefits" like hospitalization and pediatric care.
Contact the campaign: maureen@adamsfordelegate.com
WENDY GOODITIS
Meet the candidate: Wendy Gooditis
Wendy Gooditis is a career educator, activist, and community leader. She's running to fight for universal healthcare, an equal opportunity economy, and competitive public schools. About a week into her candidacy, Wendy lost her younger brother to mental illness, so she understands firsthand the need for mental health reform and support for working Virginia families.
After 25 years in the area and a wide-ranging career in technology, education, and real-estate, Wendy is running to ensure that Richmond works for all Virginians.
House District 10:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 4 percent of the vote. The 10th encompasses parts of Loudoun, Frederick, and Clarke Counties, and is currently represented by Randy Minchew (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Randy has to go:
Randy wants to change the way that Virginia's electoral college votes are distributed to ensure that, despite and likely because of Virginia's shifting to a more Democratic population in recent years, more votes go to Republican presidential candidates. He introduced a bill that would allocate two of Virginia's thirteen votes to whoever wins the Commonwealth's popular vote, while allocating the remaining eleven based on congressional district. Under current law, because she won the popular vote in Virginia, Hillary Clinton won all thirteen of the Commonwealth's electoral college votes; Randy's bill would have handed nearly half of those votes to Donald Trump thanks to the distribution of votes for president by congressional district.
Contact the campaign: emma@wendygooditis.com
DANICA ROEM
Meet the candidate: Danica Roem
Danica Roem is a 32-year-old step-mom, journalist and lifelong Manassas resident. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism/Mass Communication from St. Bonaventure University (New York) in 2006, she authored more than 2,500 news stories about the greater Prince William County area as the lead reporter of the Gainesville Times from 2006-2015, where her reporting won seven Virginia Press Association awards.
She most recently served as the news editor of the Montgomery County Sentinel from 2015-2016, leaving her post three days before launching her campaign. She twice placed runner-up for the MDDC's James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award and won first place for local government and state government reporting in 2016. Danica also covered federal and state politics for The Hotline (National Journal Group) from 2009-2013 and worked as a content writer for Yoga Alliance from 2013-2014.
On Jan. 3, 2017, Danica launched her campaign for the 13th District of the Virginia House of Delegates, becoming the first transgender person to ever run for the Virginia General Assembly. If elected, Danica would be the first out transgender person ever seated in an American state legislature.
House District 13:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 14 percent of the vote. The 13th encompasses parts of Prince William County and Manassas Park City, and is currently represented by Bob Marshall (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Bob has to go:
Bob is the apotheosis of all that is wrong with the radical right and is often an embarrassment to his own party. He has a long history of introducing discriminatory (a version of North Carolina's notorious anti-transgender "bathroom bill" or HB2), inflammatory (a bill that would prohibit state cooperation regarding any future federal gun violence prevention laws), and often nonsensical (a bill supporting the creation of a separate currency for the Commonwealth of Virginia) bills that would cause tangible social and economic damage to the Commonwealth.
When he speaks, it's even worse. Bob called children with disabilities God's vengeance against women who have had abortions, suggested that U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy is homosexual because of his ruling on same-sex marriage, and stated that sometimes, "incest is voluntary," so abortions in the case of incest should be prohibited.
Contact the campaign: ethan@danicafordelegate.com
DONTE TANNER
Meet the candidate: Donte Tanner
Donte Tanner is an Air Force Veteran, small business owner, husband and father. Donte, who was taught the importance of service from his parents, is running because he wants to continue serving his country and carry on the Air Force Academy’s tradition of putting “Service Before Self” by fighting for Virginia families. Tanner is running in the 40th District in Fairfax and Prince William Counties, a district that went 8 points for Hillary Clinton in 2016.
Donte is challenging Republican Tim Hugo, who is the House of Delegates’ majority caucus chairman. Hugo boasts being behind every bad bill Republicans have put forward -- transvaginal ultrasounds, blocking independent redistricting reform, defunding planned parenthood -- and has done so against the interests of his district.
House District 40:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 8 percent of the vote. The 40th encompasses parts of Fairfax and Prince William Counties, and is currently represented by Tim Hugo (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Tim needs to go:
Tim has supported multiple pieces of legislation aimed at suppressing the vote in Virginia. For example, he cosponsored a bill in 2015 that would have required anyone submitting an absentee ballot to include a copy of their photo ID. This simply doesn't make sense -- given that no one is able to review whether that picture ID matches the person submitting the ballot, it's an obvious attempt to make it more difficult to vote absentee by mail. Fortunately, this bill was vetoed by the governor.
As a member of the House Privileges and Elections Committee, Tim backed a series of bills this session that perpetuate the myth of voter fraud as a tool to disenfranchise Virginians. One bill, for example, would require proof of citizenship to vote in non-federal elections, while another would curtail the amount of time that eligible Virginians have to register to vote. These cynical attempts to suppress the vote in order to benefit the Republican Party are antithetical to our democratic values.
Contact the campaign: dan@dontetanner.com
Volume IV
Volume IV
flip-a-district fridays:
volume IV
ALICIA KALLEN
Meet the candidate: Alicia Kallen
Alicia was born and raised and educated right here in Southwest Virginia, attending Powell Valley primary, middle, and high schools. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Today, Alicia works for a community hospital. Alicia lives in Pound, Virginia with her husband, Jason, and their dog, Ace.
House District 1:
This district is traditionally Republican, but Alicia, a native of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, is a great fit for the 1st and can change that. The district encompasses parts of Lee, Scott, Wise Counties and Norton City. It is currently represented by Terry Kilgore (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Terry has to go:
Terry is strongly opposed to Medicaid expansion, despite representing a district in Southwest Virginia that would enormously benefit from the expansion. In fact, the 1st District is tenth out of 100 in House of Delegates Districts for the number of people that would be able to enroll in Medicaid if it was expanded. Oddly enough Terry seems to want secretly to expand Medicaid, stating "to ask whether I would like to expand Medicaid is a completely different question than asking whether I would like to provide Medicaid to more of our citizens who need it . . . of course I would like to provide Medicaid to more citizens in need” - unfortunately, Terry has sided with his party every time and voted against providing Medicaid to those citizens in need.
Contact the campaign: akallen2013@gmail.com
KELLY DELUCIA
Meet the candidate: Kelly DeLucia
Kelly DeLucia is a Hampton Roads native raised in Yorktown, where she now resides with her wife and two sons. Like many who hear the call, Kelly entered politics resolved to make a difference. She has been cast into leadership and recognized for excellence throughout her life. Competition, with herself and others, has made her into an intense, resilient, future-focused leader with a deep desire to serve her community in the Virginia House of Delegates. Kelly is ready for the challenge.
House District 96:
The Republican edge in the 96th is shrinking -- Romney carried the district by 16 points in 2012, Cuccinelli by 15 points in 2013, and Trump by 14 points in 2016. The 96th encompasses parts of James City and York Counties, and is currently represented by Brenda Pogge (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Brenda has to go:
Brenda not only voted this session for a resolution that would annually designate January 22nd as a “Day of Tears” in Virginia, but she was also a patron of the resolution. January 22nd might sound familiar: it is the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision over 40 years ago. The resolution encourages Virginians to fly their flags at half-mast on January 22nd. It's demeaning and is essentially code for a "Day of Shaming."
Contact the campaign: kellyforva@gmail.com
SCHUYLER VANVALKENBURG
Meet the candidate: Schuyler VanValkenburg
From early in his childhood, Schuyler's family impressed upon him the importance of education.
After graduation from the University of Richmond, Schuyler became a teacher in Henrico County schools, where he's taught for 12 years. He has inspired hundreds of students as a social studies teacher, and now he's ready to take the next step.
As Delegate, Schuyler will be a voice for students, working to ensure every Henrico school is properly funded and staffed. As a fresh voice in the house, he will make government accountable to citizens again, the way democracy should work - and the way he teaches his students.
House District 72:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 4 percent of the vote. The 72nd encompasses parts of Henrico County, and is currently represented by retiring member Jimmie Massie (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Eddie win:
Eddie Whitlock, former chair of the Henrico County Republican Committee, is the Republican nominee for the 72nd District. Unfortunately, Eddie supports "expanded school choice options" - in other words, religious schools and charter schools. Evidence clearly shows that expansion of school choice in other states has led to negative outcomes for students. For example, charter schools, which are for-profit entities, too often have little to no accountability and transparency compared to traditional public schools, and often put the needs of owners ahead of teachers and students. Charter schools are also less likely to adequately serve students with special needs, weeding them out during the admissions process.
The 72nd District deserves a Delegate that will put students ahead of for-profit companies, which is why we cannot let Eddie Whitlock win.
Contact the campaign:vanvalkenburg4va@gmail.com
TIA WALBRIDGE
Meet the candidate: Tia Walbridge
Tia Walbridge is a farmer and small businesswoman, a mom to two fantastic daughters, Evey and Mira Belle, and a wife to Nate, a disabled veteran who now serves his country at the Department of Defense.
She graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington, and went on to a career caring for animals at rescue centers, animal hospitals, and farms. Now, as a troop leader for her daughters’ Girl Scout troops, a service unit organizer, and an activist, Tia is engaged in this community and wants to bring the values and the voice of the 33rd district to Richmond.
House District 33:
Donald Trump won this district by 16 percent of the vote. The 33rd encompasses parts of Loudoun, Frederick, and Clarke Counties, and is currently represented by Dave LaRock (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Dave needs to go:
Dave LaRock has proven himself to be radically anti-choice, championing the misleadingly named "Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act" year after year. This bill would ban abortions after 20 weeks and would not include exemptions for rape or incest. Leaving aside that peer-reviewed evidence has found that fetuses are not capable of feeling pain in the first trimester, this is a direct attack on a woman's right to make decisions about her own body.
Dave also introduced a bill that would require the burial or cremation of fetal remains after an abortion. This bill serves no medical purpose whatsoever, and is instead part of a nationwide Republican effort to enact unnecessary regulations to restrict access to abortion.
Contact the campaign: info@tiawalbridgefordelegate.com
Volume V
Volume V
flip-a-district fridays:
volume V
Larry Barnett
Meet the candidate: Larry Barnett
Larry has served Chesterfield County citizens for more than three decades as a mental health professional with Chesterfield County Mental Health Support Services. He currently leads crisis intervention training activities with county first-responders for individuals who are struggling to overcome psychological, substance abuse or other challenges. He and his wife Pat have lived in Midlothian for nearly 30 years. Their daughter, Eileen, graduated from Midlothian High School, and now lives in Charlottesville while completing her graduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Larry wants to bring his decades of experience listening to our community and bring your voice to Richmond.
House District 27:
This district is becoming less and less Republican -- in 2012, Mitt Romney won the district by 8 points, in 2014, Ed Gillespie won the district by 8 points, but in 2016, Donald Trump won the district by just 4 points. The district encompasses parts of Chesterfield County. It is currently represented by Roxann Robinson (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Roxann has to go:
Roxann introduced an unnecessary, harsh bill this session targeting vulnerable families who rely on the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). Her bill would have added needless additional bureaucratic requirements on the administration of nutrition assistance by Virginia's Department of Social Services, thereby targeting Virginia's poorest and most needy citizens for no valid reason. As Governor McAuliffe noted in his veto statement, "this bill would be a step backwards in our collective efforts to ensure that everyone has the food they need to learn, thrive, and contribute."
Contact the campaign: larry@barnett4delegate.com
BRENT FINNEGAN
Meet the candidate: Brent Finnegan
Brent has spent most of his life serving communities across the Shenandoah Valley. Raised in Broadway, Virginia, Brent currently lives in Harrisonburg where he now serves on the Planning Commission.
He has volunteered by teaching citizenship classes at Skyline Literacy and raised funds for Our Community Place. Brent was an integral part of the local grassroots organizing team for Bernie Sanders’s presidential primary campaign that won in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County in 2016.
He has produced TV shows and documentaries at WVPT about immigration policy and farming issues. He founded and ran a local news website, hburgnews.com, which broke local news stories and implemented innovative ways to include readers in the news-making process.
Currently, Brent works at the Institute for Innovation in Health and Human Services at JMU, where he collaborates with local educators and health professionals to reduce drug abuse and teen pregnancy and support rural health initiatives in our community.
House District 26:
This district has not seen a Democratic challenger since a special election in 2010. Although the 26th is traditionally Republican, their margin is shrinking, and a strong candidate like Brent is a great fit for the district. The 26th encompasses Harrisonburg City and parts of Rockingham County, and is currently represented by Tony Wilt (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Tony has to go:
Tony is firmly anti-choice, despite the fact that 67 percent of Virginians support protecting a woman’s right to access safe and legal abortion care. Tony voted last session for a Republican resolution --which passed-- that marks January 22nd, the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, as a “Day of Tears” in Virginia. The resolution encourages Virginians to fly their flags at half-mast on January 22nd. HR268 is not only insulting and demeaning, it is symbolic of the consistent resistance the Republican majority shows to women's reproductive freedom.
Contact the campaign: brent@brentfinnegan.com
WILLIE RANDALL
Meet the candidate: Willie Randall
Willie served in the United States Army for over 20 years, and served on the Northampton County Board of Supervisors for 4 years. He has also served on the Virginia State University Board of Visitors as the Vice Rector, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees, President of the Melfa Rotary Club and is currently a member of the Onancock Rotary Club. He was a commissioner the Accomack/Northampton Planning and Transportation Commissions, President of the Eastern Shore United Way, and chairman of the board of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce, President of Cape Charles Accomac Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi to name just a few of the community organizations he’s worked with over the years.
Upon graduating from Virginia State University, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army, serving in the Persian Gulf War. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for service in a combat zone and retired as a Major in 1996. He and his wife Shirley, an anesthesiologist and Pain Management Physician, moved to Virginia's Eastern Shore upon his retirement from the United States Army. They have one son, Xavier, and a grandson Ashton.
House District 100:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 2 percent of the vote. The 100th encompasses parts of Accomack County, Norfolk City, and Northampton County, and is currently represented by Rob Bloxom (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Rob needs to go:
Since arriving in the General Assembly in 2014, Rob has been ineffective. He has consistently introduced a meager number of bills each session; in 2014, Rob didn't introduce a single piece of legislation. Instead, he spends his time voting the party line on subjects concerning concealed handguns, prevailing wages, refugee resettlement, health care, and more. The 100th district's voters deserve better -- an active advocate for the issues that matter most to them.
Contact the campaign: info@randallfordelegate.com
DEBRA RODMAN
Meet the candidate: Debra Rodman
Debra Rodman is a Professor of Anthropology and Women’s Studies and Director of Women’s Studies at Randolph-Macon College. She regularly serves as an expert witness for U.S. Federal immigration courts for families fleeing violence and persecution, mostly women, children, and LGBT individuals. Named as one of Richmond Style Weekly's Top 40 Under 40, Dr. Rodman is a former Fulbright Scholar and fluent Spanish speaker.
Debra is a mom to two beautiful boys and the wife to Darryl Lowery, a Richmond native and member of the Lumbee tribe of North Carolina. They live in Henrico and attend Temple Beth-El.
House District 73:
Secretary Hillary Clinton won this district by 7 percent of the vote. The 73rd encompasses Henrico County, and is currently represented by John O'Bannon (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why John needs to go:
John is extremely anti-gun safety, and has been consistently endorsed by the NRA and the radical Virginia Citizens Defense League. He has voted to allow guns on school grounds, make it easier to carry concealed, to repeal limits on the frequency of gun purchases by a single individual, and even voted to authorize concealed carrying in establishments that serve alcohol. Even worse, John has co-patroned bills that would make it easier for non-violent felons to access firearms, codify the controversial "castle doctrine," and allow the carrying of concealed handguns at National Guard facilities.
Contact the campaign: rodmancampaign@gmail.com
Volume VI
Volume VI
flip-a-district fridays:
volume VI
JOSHUA COLE
Meet the candidate: Joshua Cole
Joshua Cole, the "son of the 28th," is a longtime resident and product of Stafford County and Fredericksburg. A pastor, educational aide, and a former staffer in the State Senate, Joshua has experienced the struggles faced by citizens of the Commonwealth.
As the first African American House Candidate in the 28th, Joshua will bring a 'fresh direction' to the region by ending the 30 years of Republican control over the seat.
House District 28:
The 28th is a "purple" district, with elections on the national level swinging back and forth between Democrats and Republicans. The district encompasses parts of Stafford County and Fredericksburg City. Winning here would be a particularly symbolic victory, as it is currently represented by retiring Speaker of the House Bill Howell (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Bob win:
Robert Michael Thomas, Jr., or "Bob," is the Republican nominee for the 28th district, and it's clear that he is not prepared to stand up for middle-class families. On his website's issues page, he states, "I support lowering taxes on business, but this must not be limited to the corporate tax rate." Tax reform is, of course, long overdue, but lowering the corporate rate is not the answer. Evidence shows that a significant number of businesses find loopholes and other ways to avoid paying their fair share in Virginia to support critical state resources like education, health care, and more.
The 28th district deserves a representative who will think of working-class families first, not corporations, when it comes to taxes.
Contact the campaign: volunteer@jgcole.org
AL DURANTE
Meet the candidate: Al Durante
Al and his wife Jeanne have been active residents in the district for nearly 10 years, becoming involved in various initiatives improving the community. Al is a retired teacher (high school, college, and university). He has been involved in local politics, and is currently Chair of the Spotsylvania County Democratic Committee. Al also serves as Committee Chair of One Virginia 2021 for the five-county greater Fredericksburg region (non-partisan redistricting reform advocacy).
Al knows the challenges everyday life can bring, from his time teaching photography to gang members and other at-risk youth (as a Texas Commission on the Arts Artist-in-Residence in San Antonio at an Alternative High School) as well as growing up in a regular working class household. His dad was a factory worker and shop steward for the Teamsters, and his mom was a server in a cafeteria at the World Trade Center. After his parents divorced when he was young, his single parent mother and he lived in a housing project, and for a time they were fortunate to have support from the benefits of government assistance when she was out of work.
Informed by these challenges, Al knows the value of education and the future that it can offer our youth based on the opportunities it opened up for him. He knows the importance of workforce training and certification and what that means to job prospects and the economic development of our communities.
House District 54:
Bobby Orrock hasn't had a Democratic challenger in the last 25 years. This is the year that changes and we take this district back. The 54th encompasses parts of Caroline and Spotsylvania Counties. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Bobby needs to go:
Bobby has a terrible record on education issues, voting the wrong way on bills regarding teachers, students, and parents alike -- he received just a 50 percent rating in 2016 and a 40 percent rating in 2015 from the Virginia Education Association (VEA). These poor ratings are no surprise given that Bobby has repeatedly voted to divert funds from Virginia's public school systems and redirect that money to "Parental Choice Education Savings Accounts" to pay for educational services outside the public school system such as private and parochial schools.
As Governor McAuliffe noted when he vetoed these partisan bills year after year, this legislation "raises constitutional concerns, diverts funds from public schools, and creates an inequitable system across different school divisions." The 54th deserves a real advocate for students, teachers, and parents -- Al Durante.
Contact the campaign: info@duranteforva.com
JENNIFER CARROLL FOY
Meet the candidate: Jennifer Carroll Foy
Jennifer Carroll Foy is a public defender, lifelong Virginian, and foster mom. She was one of the first African-American women to graduate from Virginia Military Institute, and she has dedicated her life to public service. Because she believes so strongly that no child should be without a nurturing home, she started the Foundation for Foster and Orphan Children, a nonprofit committed to building better futures for orphans and foster children.
She currently works for the Arlington Public Defender’s Office, where she represents the most vulnerable members of her community.
House District 2:
Secretary Clinton won this district by an impressive 17 percent of the vote. The 2nd district encompasses parts of Prince William and Stafford Counties, and is currently represented by retiring member Mark Dudenhefer (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Laquan win:
Laquan Austion, the Republican nominee for the 2nd district, is firmly opposed to Medicaid expansion, despite the fact that approximately 4,700 residents of the 2nd district would directly benefit. His opposition to expansion and comments like "[p]eople need less government in their lives" certainly do not inspire confidence that Laquan can truly represent this district.
For example, 18 percent of the district's constituents rely on Medicaid. 64 percent of enrollees in the 2nd district are children and 3 percent are pregnant women. Simply put, Medicaid is not a luxury, but a necessity for many struggling families, and Jennifer is the only candidate who understands that in this race.
Contact the campaign: teddy@jennifercarrollfoy.org
CHERYL TURPIN
Meet the candidate: Cheryl Turpin
Cheryl grew up in an active military family. After serving in the Army for 23 years, Cheryl’s father retired from service and her family resided in Fairfax County, Virginia. For the past 18 years Cheryl’s family has called the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach home. Her two adult daughters – Ellison and Patricia – attended Virginia Beach City Public Schools and are graduates of Kempsville High School. Cheryl received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Virginia Commonwealth University and earned a Master of Education Degree from the University of Virginia.
Cheryl has invested herself and her appreciation of education into the lives of local students for the past 24 years while serving as a High School Science teacher. For the past 8 years, she has taught Advanced Placement Environmental Science.
House District 85:
This district was practically tied in the 2016 presidential race, with Donald Trump winning by less than one point. The 85th includes Virginia Beach City, and is currently represented by Rocky Holcomb (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Rocky needs to go:
Rocky has voted time and again against the clean water needs of his district. For example, in February of 2017, he voted against a bill that would have simply required any person who illegally dumps any toxic substance into state waters to notify authorities within 12 hours. Interestingly enough, the previous January, Dominion had two massive oil spills that fouled public waters, and then did not admit responsibility for weeks.
Contact the campaign: ct4vab@gmail.com
Volume VII
Volume VII
flip-a-district fridays:
volume VII
SHEILA BYNUM-COLEMAN
Meet the candidate: Sheila Bynum-Coleman
Sheila Bynum-Coleman is a small business owner, a wife and mother of five who was born and raised in Chesterfield County. Sheila's father was a Richmond police officer, who started the Richmond-chapter of the Police Athletic League. Sheila received her Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Virginia Commonwealth University in nearby Richmond. In 2015, Sheila returned to VCU to deliver the commencement speech at the School of Political Science.
Sheila has been a licensed realtor since 2000 and owns a class-A contracting company, JC Bynum Construction, which operates in 17 states. In early 2017, Sheila became the first African American woman appointed to the Virginia Board of Contractors. Sheila is involved with the Veterans Helping Veterans organization, and has been a substitute teacher and a care provider for an elderly family member.
Sheila decided to run for office after she personally had to navigate the special-needs programs in the Chesterfield school system. After being referred to her delegate to discuss the education system more broadly, Delegate Ingram was unwilling to take a meeting to discuss non-partisan changes to these onerous systems. Sheila wants to be a voice for Democrats and Republicans in her district, and shed light on issues facing her constituents.
House District 62:
The 62nd is a very light red district -- let's call it pink -- and Republicans' margins have been shrinking year after year. The district encompasses parts of Chesterfield, Henrico, and Prince George Counties, and Hopewell City. It is currently represented by Riley Ingram (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Riley has to go:
Riley has been in the House of Delegates since before the fall of the Soviet Union, and he holds some outdated views. Take, for example, gun safety -- starting in 2005, he began introducing legislation to allow concealed guns in cars on school property. This year, he was rated 100 percent by the extreme pro-gun group Virginia Citizens Defense League.
On women's health care rights, Riley not only opposes the right to choose, he copatroned the controversial 2012 law that would have required women to have a transvaginal ultrasound before accessing abortion services. This year, he continued his anti-choice legacy by voting for the "Day of Tears" resolution that encourages people to fly their flags at half-mast on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade.
Riley has even been around long enough to have voted "aye" on the Marshall-Newman Amendment to the Virginia Constitution, defining marriage as being only between one man and one woman (this discriminatory amendment has since been found unconstitutional). This year, Riley supported a "religious freedom" bill that would have permitted discrimination against same-sex couples (this bill was vetoed by Governor McAuliffe).
It's time for Riley to go.
Contact the campaign: info@sheilafordelegate.com
STEVE MCBRIDE
Meet the candidate: Steve McBride
Steve McBride is a teacher and research scientist at Virginia Tech working on his doctorate in Biology. He currently lives in Salem with his wife and daughter.
He was the first of his family to graduate college, eventually earning his Masters at James Madison University.
Steve knows what it’s like to need a hand up, not a handout — and he is grateful for all the public assistance he received to lift him out of poverty into the position he is today. That’s why he is motivated to give back to our Commonwealth.
He worked with farmers at JMU to help them balance their business practices with environmental concerns. While Steve is pursuing his Doctorate at Virginia Tech, he instructs Hokie undergrads and also works with K-12 students to introduce them to biology. He enjoys volunteering in the community as a Big Brother for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Now, he wants to bring his experiences using knowledge to search for solutions to Richmond because he knows how good public policy can make a difference in people’s lives.
House District 8:
This is a traditionally Republican district, but incumbent Greg Habeeb (R) is extreme enough (Virginia Citizens Defense League rates him 100 percent, NARAL Pro-Choice rates him zero percent) and rude enough to draw a strong challenger like Steve. The 8th district encompasses parts of Roanoke, Montgomery, and Craig Counties, and Salem City. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Greg needs to go:
Greg fails on education issues. One of his first bills after being elected to the House of Delegates was an anti-teacher bill that "would let school divisions wait until June 15 to inform people that they have no job the coming August." He also has consistently supported legislation to strip money away from the public school system in favor of private and parochial schools, and voted to put a partisan, pro-charter school constitutional amendment on the ballot (the measure failed in the Senate).
Contact the campaign: campaign@mcbride4delegate.com
DJUNA OSBORNE
Meet the candidate: Djuna Osborne
Djuna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her BA in English and an MSW from the University of South Carolina. She has an 11-year career in community mental health treating impoverished individuals with chronic medical and mental health issues, substance abuse, and acute crisis in hospitals, jails and clinics. Her profession has taught her the importance of affordable, accessible health care and the consequences of not having adequate funding for mental health services or our schools. Djuna chose social work as her career path because her goal in life is to provide a voice for the voiceless.
Djuna is married and has two daughters. She believes that that everyone's daughters should be able to compete on a level playing field. To illustrate her commitment, Djuna co-organized the Women’s March on Roanoke, an event that inspired over 4,000 people to gather in Downtown Roanoke on a winter’s day to say that equality for women shouldn’t just be a goal, it should be a priority.
As well as managing a career and honoring her commitments to both her family and her community, Djuna is a regular volunteer at the Bradley Free Clinic, is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Roanoke Valley and an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke. Never one to turn her back on a person in need or a job that needs to be done, Djuna has become a master at keeping all the plates spinning. The Roanoke Valley’s 17th District needs effective, responsive representation. The 17th District needs Djuna Osborne for Delegate.
House District 17:
The 17th district encompasses parts of Roanoke and Botetourt Counties, and Roanoke City. It is currently represented by Christopher Head (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Chris needs to go:
Chris -- who is himself a franchise owner -- has repeatedly introduced legislation that would specify "that franchisees and their employees can’t be treated as employees of the larger franchisor under state labor laws, notwithstanding any union agreement."
In a nutshell, the controversial and partisan bill, which has been vetoed multiple times by Governor McAuliffe (click here for the Governor's veto statement), would change the relationship between franchisees and employees, and potentially exempt franchisors from their obligations to Virginia businesses and workers.
Contact the campaign: djuna@djuna4delegate.com
KATIE SPONSLER
Meet the candidate: Katie Sponsler
Katie Sponsler was born in 1980 in the rustbelt town of Warren, Ohio, the fifth of seven children. In 2001, Katie joined the United States Air Force. After a year of training, her first post was Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany. Katie and her young daughter, Demetria, spent the next five years in Spangdahlem. Katie served as an Aircraft Armaments Specialist, earning the rank of Staff Sergeant, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in armament technologies from the Community College of the Air Force. At the end of her sixth year of active duty, Katie received an Honorable Discharge and returned to Ohio to continue her education at Youngstown State University, majoring in criminal justice.
Katie remained active in the military, joining the Air Force Reserve at Youngstown Air Reserve Station. In 2009 she served as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Camp Cunningham Fitness Center during a 6 month tour at Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan and was involved in humanitarian relief efforts in Guam, repairing buildings damaged in a 1993 earthquake.
After earning a dual Federal Seasonal and Ohio State Police Officer Certification Katie was offered a job as a seasonal Law Enforcement Park Ranger at Petersburg National Battlefield. Always proud to serve, Katie and her daughter relocated to Colonial Heights in April, 2011. After one season, Katie was invited to stay as a full-time Ranger.
In March of 2015, Katie and her partner of five years, Anthe, welcomed their son, Lars. Since that time she has worked full-time serving her family and is now ready to serve her adopted home in Virginia’s House of Delegates.
House District 66:
This district is currently represented by the Delegate whom the Republican majority hopes will be the next Speaker, Kirk Cox (I prefer to think it will be David Toscano - D, Charlottesville!), so a pickup here would be a huge victory. The 66th includes parts of Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights City. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Kirk needs to go:
Kirk has led the fight against Medicaid expansion in Virginia. He has been publicly unsympathetic to working class families stuck in the coverage gap, commenting that “[p]eople currently get service. They’re not dying.” Other states' experience with expansion prove Kirk wrong.
Consider Ohio. Ohio expanded Medicaid under Republican Governor John Kasich, and reports have consistently shown how formerly uninsured people have had their lives saved. Take a look at these quotes from new enrollees in a recent state report:
- "[Medicaid is] a life saver. It’s got my blood pressure back down to almost normal. I'm just grateful for the coverage because I wouldn't get this care without it because I know it isn't cheap.”
- “It means that I am healthier, I have asthma and before I couldn’t afford my inhaler. It's been a lifesaver.”
- “It has saved my life. I have severe mental issues and I have depression and bipolar insanity ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and I am on several medications and I would not be able to take care of me if I didn’t have Medicaid.”
Maybe Kirk's just not paying attention -- I'd sure like to think it is not that he doesn't care. In any event, Katie would better represent the 66th district's 2,200 people who would be covered under expansion.
Contact the campaign: sponslerfordelegate@gmail.com
Volume VIII
Volume VIII
flip-a-district fridays:
volume VIII
MELISSA DART
Meet the candidate: Melissa Dart
Melissa Dart is running in the 56th District of the Virginia House of Delegates to fight for the rights of all Virginians. A healthcare administration professional and a graduate of VCU with a Masters in Science and Health Administration, Melissa understands the importance of quality, affordable healthcare and has the knowledge and experience to make sure that the residents of Henrico, Louisa, Goochland, and Spotsylvania counties receive the care they deserve.
A twelve-year resident of the district and the mother of three young boys, Melissa is deeply committed to ensuring the continued excellence of public education in central Virginia and beyond. Melissa serves on the Henrico County Special Education Advisory Committee where she advocates for her son Leo and 6,000 children in Henrico County with special needs. With daily threats encroaching on public education funding, Melissa wants to work in the House of Delegates to create a state-level firewall to protect special needs students throughout the Commonwealth.
House District 56:
The 56th district is traditionally Republican, but the GOP's margins have been progressively shrinking year after year. The district encompasses parts of Louisa, Henrico, Goochland, and Spotsylvania Counties. It is currently represented by retiring member Peter Farrell (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let John win:
John McGuire is the Republican nominee for this open seat, but he only moved to the district a few months ago -- for obviously political reasons. Even the Bull Elephant, a conservative blog covering Virginia politics, called out John for "taking a political vacation in the hopes that it will net him a political office. The fact is, John McGuire did not claim residence in the 56th House District until he decided to run."
The 56th district deserves a Delegate like Melissa -- someone who lives in, knows, and has worked to better the community.
Contact the campaign: info@dartfordelegate.org
MICHELE EDWARDS
Meet the candidate: Michele Edwards
Michele is a lifelong Virginian and a longtime resident of Staunton. She and her husband, Wally, have a daughter, Maeve, a student at Mary Baldwin, and a son Owen, a rising junior at Robert E. Lee High School.
Michele attended Virginia Commonwealth University and earned a degree in Special Education and French. She spent 15 years as a classroom teacher and school administrator.
Michele is a church member and helped create a partnership with a collaborative of churches that supports a primary school in a small village in Haiti. Currently, Michele works for a non-profit that supports small business owners in Haiti through training, mentoring, and access to capital. She is a strong advocate for business solutions to poverty.
Michele volunteers at the Middle River Regional Jail, has been a foster parent, and is an advocate for children in foster care. She cares deeply for ALL people and keenly desires to serve her community.
House District 20:
This district is historically red, but the incumbent Delegate Dickie Bell (R) hasn't seen a Democratic challenger since 2011. The 8th district encompasses parts of Augusta, Nelson, and Highland Counties, and Staunton and Waynesboro Cities. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Dickie needs to go:
Dickie has never achieved above a 50 percent rating from the Virginia Education Association, and it's no mystery why. He not only votes the wrong way on education issues, he introduces the most partisan, controversial education bills in the House of Delegates.
For example, Dickie patroned a bill (which even several Republicans opposed!) the last two sessions that would create a virtual school system to serve as an alternative to in-person public schools. This bill would not only drain money away from the public school system to fund the private-sector contractors who would implement the virtual school network, but it also would be independent of the Virginia Board of Education's standards and oversight.
Interestingly enough, the idea for this legislation came from ALEC, the infamously shadowy conservative group backed by corporations like Koch Industries. The bill was vetoed in 2016 and 2017 by Governor McAuliffe.
Contact the campaign: kirk@michelefordelegate.com
DAVID ROSE-CARMACK
Meet the candidate: David Rose-Carmack
David Rose-Carmack was born in Norfolk, VA and raised by a cancer survivor in a single parent household. David attended Norfolk Public Schools, graduating from Maury High in 2008. He went on to study Political Science for four years at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) where he experienced firsthand the struggle with rising tuition costs that so many Virginians face. After VCU, David worked in a number of fields, mostly skilled trades. He currently works as a project manager for a small cabinet shop.
David's values and policy positions are all products of his experience, and his understanding that while some of us can and have overcome injustice, no injustice should be allowed to stand. David's experience has taught him that real leadership is understanding that while blazing a new trail to a better place is admirable, leadership is paving the way so others can join you.
From healthcare to education to the environment, there are so many issues affecting our Commonwealth, but not enough solutions. David is running for Delegate because he believes that we deserve better policies and politics than we have now, that we deserve leaders who will work together to find solutions to the challenges we face. He is looking forward to paving the way for all Virginians to a future where we lift one another up so we can all move forward together.
House District 83:
This district is light red and Democratic candidates have come within four points of winning the 83rd in recent years. The 83rd district encompasses parts of Virginia Beach and Norfolk Cities. It is currently represented by Chris Stolle (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Chris needs to go:
Chris opposes Medicaid expansion despite loud calls from the 83rd to embrace it. Both of the major local governing bodies in the district, Norfolk City's Council and Virginia Beach City's Council, included Medicaid expansion as one of their top legislative priorities for 2017.
FYI there are 2,600 people in the 83rd who would be covered by expansion.
Contact the campaign: davidfordelegate@gmail.com
TRISTIAN SHIELDS
Meet the candidate: Tristan Shields
Tristan's Virginia roots run deep, tracing his lineage back to Richmond, 1838. As a teenager, his love of horses made him a Virginia state equitation champion. Name a job on a horse farm, he’s done it. After graduating from the College of Charleston, he moved to Memphis, Tennessee, and worked as an entertainer, actor and singer playing music in clubs on Beale Street. You may know Tristan as half of the Shields Brothers, the singing duo on Season 2 of NBC’s The Voice, TV’s most popular reality show. Spending time in Los Angeles on a variety of acting and music projects, he ended up singing backup for Poison star Bret Michaels. Along the way, he built a significant YouTube and podcasting presence, garnering over 1.4 million views and 160,000 downloads on his Who Stole What podcast.
After time spent working in LA, Tristan moved back to the Piedmont to start his own media business. Growing up in the music business during the most tumultuous times ever for that industry, Tristan learned to pivot, bounce back, fail, and try new things -- all skills necessary to live today as a small business owner, millennial and the Democratic nominee in a very red district. In short, he has grit (he also likes grits, but that’s another story).
Tristan’s campaign is focused on healthcare, rural broadband, education and economic incentives for millennial startups and baby boomers retiring into entrepreneurship. He is committed to making the 18th District the home of opportunity for all.
House District 18:
This district is traditionally Republican, but Tristan is clearly ready to work to win back the 18th (Seriously. You've GOT to watch this). The district is currently represented by Michael Webert (R), and includes parts of Fauquier, Warren, Culpeper, and Rappahannock Counties. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Michael needs to go:
Michael has failed to represent the women of the 18th district. On the issue of choice, he voted to defund Planned Parenthood, ban abortion after 20 weeks, and require women to undergo an invasive ultrasound before accessing abortion services.
On healthcare, he opposes Medicaid expansion, which would help thousands of Virginia women stuck in the coverage gap receive important services like mammograms and treatment for post-partum depression.
Finally, Michael has consistently voted to kill commonsense gun safety bills that have come before the House Militia, Police, and Public Safety Committee on which he serves -- this stance disproportionately affects women in Virginia. In fact, Virginia's "rate of intimate partner gun homicides of women...[is] 21 percent higher than the national average. Nonetheless, Michael recently helped to table a bill that would prohibit the possession of firearms by individuals under a permanent protective order for domestic violence.
Contact the campaign: voteshields@gmail.com
Volume IX
Volume IX
flip-a-district fridays:
volume IX
REBECCA COLAW
Meet the candidate: Rebecca Colaw
Rebecca has lived in Virginia for 25 years. Her family has been in the Commonwealth for several generations, and has served and fought in every American war since the Revolution. Rebecca holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in Communications and Broadcast Management, a Master's degree in Criminal Justice, and a Juris Doctor degree, which she earned attending night school while serving in the Air Force.
In 1984, Rebecca enlisted in the United States Air Force and served as a commissioned officer. She was deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm to King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia. During her tenure, she developed an inter-agency model for the media response to a domestic terrorist attack that used weapons of mass destruction and organized coordinated response efforts with the FBI, FEMA, and state and local authorities.
Rebecca has worked extensively with local, state and federal government officials and community leaders on terrorism-related issues. In addition, she has spoken as a team-builder and educator on local and national levels.
After retiring from the Air Force, Rebecca opened a law practice in Suffolk, Virginia. She has been able to help many people in need, but understands that she has much more to offer. She is extremely passionate about protecting the rights of everyone, regardless of nationality, race, religion, creed or sexual orientation. She is a strong supporter of our nation's great charter -- the Constitution -- and believes that "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" is owed to ALL Americans.
Rebecca stands ready to represent and fight for the people of the 64th District of Virginia's House of Delegates.
House District 64:
The 64th district is Southeast of Richmond, and encompasses parts of Isle of Wight, Prince George, Surry, Southampton, and Sussex Counties, as well as parts of Suffolk and Franklin Cities. It is currently represented by retiring member Rick Morris (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Emily win:
Emily Brewer is the Republican nominee for this open seat, and given that she's never held elected office, we're left to review what she has said publicly to get a sense of her character. It's clear from her own words on social media that she's quick to sacrifice principles for party.
On November 10, 2015, she tweeted -- correctly -- that "Trump clearly has issues with women. If anyone can explain that away, you ARE the problem." Also that November, she wrote "@realDonaldTrump and his Twitter rant against @JohnKasich was the equivalent of a toddler in his 'Terrible Twos.'" On October 28, she condemned Trump for "bullying."
Fast forward to 2017. Emily was quick to give up her standards in favor of blind party loyalty. Once Trump was sworn in, she exclaimed on Twitter that Trump "is a POTUS with a plan!" On Facebook in March, Emily reminisced fondly that "[i]t seems like yesterday I was helping put together packets for poll workers on Election Day for President Trump!" Clearly, the Emily of 2015 has different values than the Emily of 2017.
We cannot trust Emily to stand up for the 64th district when party allegiance seems to be the only thing she truly values.
Contact the campaign: rsc@colawfor64.com
VERONICA COLEMAN
Meet the candidate: Veronica Coleman
Dr. Veronica Coleman is the Pastor of New Jerusalem Ministries, a community focused ministry that she founded in 2010. New Jerusalem Ministries’ work in the community is so widely recognized that in 2015 it received the Model Partnership Award from the Virginia Beach City Public Schools, in recognition of its Mentoring Program and its other outreach efforts conducted on behalf of the students in
the city.
A recognized leader in the community, Dr. Coleman is the immediate Past President of the Virginia Beach Interdenominational Ministers Conference and has served in leadership capacities with other civic and religious organizations. She served for many years as a volunteer reporter and anchor for the City of Virginia Beach Television Station, VBTV. She currently co-facilitates the Pastors and Community Roundtable designed to improve the relationship between the Virginia Beach Police Department and the community.
Dr. Coleman is a native of Halifax County, VA. She received her undergraduate degree at Danville Community College and Averett College (University). She completed her graduate studies at Old Dominion University and Virginia Union University. In 2010, she earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio.
Veronica Coleman is a wife, a mother, a pastor, a manager and a mentor. She entered this campaign to fight for the values that matter in Virginia’s 84th District -- strengthening the healthcare system, protecting the vote, and making sure that everyone benefits from a vibrant and equitable economy.
House District 84:
This district is barely Republican -- Romney only won it by a paltry 261 votes in 2012. The 84th district represents all of Virginia Beach City. It is currently represented by Glenn Davis (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Glenn needs to go:
Glenn LOVES Donald Trump. In fact, he has happily compared himself to Donald Trump -- check out this campaign ad for his failed Lieutenant Governor bid. He talks about how the "liberal media" is being too hard on Trump, as if nothing but Trump's (dubious) business record matters.
Glenn's conveniently forgets all of the other issues unrelated to business on which he's voted the wrong way. He voted to drain money away from our public school system (HB1605), to designate the anniversary of Roe v. Wade as a "Day of Tears" (HR 268), to require reports on the locations of already at-risk refugee populations in Virginia (HB2002), to suppress the vote (HB1428, HB1598), and to repeal state laws connected to the Affordable Care Act (HB2411), just to name a few.
Contact the campaign: http://veronicacoleman.org/index.php/get-involved/
BEN HIXON
Meet the candidate: Ben Hixon
It’s time for forward thinking and fresh new ideas in both parties. Ben Hixon is the Democratic candidate for the 30th district of the Virginia House of Delegates, representing Madison, Orange, and Culpeper counties.
Ben is a 35-year-old Artificial Intelligence researcher, Culpeper resident, and Louisiana native. He moved to Culpeper with his partner Chris to build an artificial intelligence startup, and decided to run for office because the Democratic Party needs to get back to basics: freedom and opportunity for all.
Ben wants to build more vocational schools here in the Piedmont. He wants Virginia to be the first state in the nation to offer a two-year vocational degree in computer programming. He wants more mental health centers to combat the opioid crisis. He is an advocate for reliable broadband in rural areas, agricultural legislation that is fairer for small farmers, lower taxes for working families, and a rollback of crony capitalism. Ben wants to give people the tools to take care of themselves.
House District 30:
The 30th district encompasses parts of Orange, Culpeper, and Madison Counties. It is currently represented by Nick Freitas (R), who has never faced a challenger before. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Nick needs to go:
Nick is not only on the wrong side of history when it comes to the fight for LGBT equality, he's leading the charge to undermine this important cause. Nick introduced the misleadingly named "religious freedom" bill (HB2025), which would allow any person, religious organization or affiliates to deny participation "in the solemnization of any marriage” if it conflicts with “a sincerely held religious belief or moral conviction that marriage is or should be recognized as the union of one man and one woman.”
This bill does not protect religious liberty, it gives people license to discriminate against LGBT individuals and families. Governor McAuliffe said it best in his veto statement -- "Although couched as a 'religious freedom' bill, this legislation is nothing more than an attempt to stigmatize...We should be pursuing policies to make Virginia a more vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and raise a family. House Bill 2025 would accomplish the opposite by making Virginia unwelcome to same-sex couples, while artificially engendering a sense of fear and persecution among our religious communities."
Contact the campaign: campaign@benhixon.com
SHELLY SIMONDS
Meet the candidate: Shelly Simonds
Shelly Simonds is an educator and a community leader in Newport News. A former teacher, Shelly is a member of the Newport News School Board with a passion for excellence in education. As a Delegate, Shelly will fight for higher teacher pay and pursue a bold agenda to fix our schools’ crumbling infrastructure. She supports advancements in STEM curriculum, which will lead to better jobs and a well-trained workforce that is prepared for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.
Shelly is also a strong advocate for higher wages for Virginia’s workers and will fight for the kind of economic growth that will benefit all Virginians, not just the one percent. She has always been a staunch defender of a woman’s freedom to choose and her right to reproductive health, and she believes that Virginia must greatly expand access to health care overall.
As a member of numerous boards and non-profit organizations, Shelly is a long-time local fixture in the Newport News community. She lives in the Hilton area with her husband Paul, an aeronautical engineer, and her youngest daughter Georgia. Her daughter Tessa attends the University of Virginia. Shelly received her B.A. from Bucknell University and holds a Masters in Communications from Stanford.
House District 94:
Secretary Clinton won this district by 5 percent of the vote. The 94th encompasses parts of Newport News City and is currently represented by David Yancey (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why David needs to go:
David must really not want to be in the House of Delegates, because he sure misses a lot of votes. It appears that on several controversial votes, instead of standing up to his party to do the right thing and vote "nay," he took a stroll out of the chamber. For example:
- He conveniently missed voting on whether to confirm Judge Thorne-Begland's controversial nomination for the General District Court of Richmond (he became the first openly gay nominee elected by the Virginia General Assembly).
- During the vote on the "Day of Tears" Resolution that suggested people fly their flags at half mast on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, David also took a walk. Interestingly, he was around just moments before to vote on another bill...
- David happened to miss the House vote to defund Planned Parenthood despite being in the chamber minutes earlier.
The 94th District deserves someone who doesn't shy away from expressing his or her values just because it could be politically inconvenient.
Contact the campaign: Info@simondsfordelegate.com
Volume X
Volume X
flip-a-district fridays:
volume X
LEE CARTER
Meet the candidate: Lee Carter
Lee Carter moved to Virginia in 2011 after completing five years of service in the United States Marine Corps. Lee now serves as an IT specialist living in the city of Manassas with his wife and daughter.
He is an active member of the Manassas City Democratic Committee and spends much of his time working as a community organizer and activist — particularly in the areas of affordable housing and worker protections. He is also a graduate of the Sorensen Institute of Political Leadership. The Carter family are members of the Bull Run Unitarian Universalists congregation in Manassas.
Lee is committed to the 50th district and will fight hard to address the challenges that residents in the community — and across the Commonwealth — face. He knows that a large part of public service is being active in the community and listening to constituents, and is committed to doing that for all residents in the 50th.
House District 50:
Secretary Clinton won this district by a whopping 12 points. The 50th district includes parts of Prince William County and Manassas City, and is currently represented by Jackson Miller (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Jackson must go:
Virginia is notoriously gerrymandered -- the Commonwealth's congressional lines had to be redrawn by the courts in 2016, adding a Democrat to Virginia's delegation. The Republican defendants in the court case, who wanted to maintain the heavily gerrymandered map, were surprisingly straightforward in their argument to the Supreme Court -- they bluntly acknowledged that they drew the lines based on political motives, while denying any racial (and thus unconstitutional) ones.
State legislative maps have been challenged on the grounds that current boundaries violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution and compactness rules. All it takes is one look at last year's presidential election results to see how warped these lines are in order to favor Republicans.
Jackson Miller is Vice Chair of the House Privileges and Elections Committee, where he has helped to kill every nonpartisan redistricting reform bill that has been introduced to fix this serious issue. Jackson sees no problem with the current rigged system and claims that "the redistricting process doesn't need reform." Intentionally or not, Jackson is using his committee position to continue the manipulation of maps to enhance Republicans' (and his) political power at the clear expense of fair voter representation.
Contact the campaign: Lee@carterforvirginia.com
SHEILA CROWLEY
Meet the candidate: Sheila Crowley
With over 25 years of experience as the chief executive of progressive organizations, Sheila is running to use her leadership and policy skills to help the residents of the Middle Peninsula receive quality health care, a first-class education, good jobs, affordable housing, and a clean environment.
Sheila most recently served 17 ½ years as the CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, where she successfully advanced a progressive housing policy agenda with Congress and the Clinton, Bush, and Obama administrations. Previously, she served as the Executive Director of the Daily Planet, which provided services to and advocacy for Richmond’s homeless population, and, in 1979, founded Central Virginia’s first shelter for battered women.
Sheila lives in Port Haywood with her husband, Kent Willis, her mother, Constance Crowley, and their 11-year-old rescue dog, Mate. They have two children and six grandchildren.
House District 98:
The 98th district represents parts of Gloucester, Middlesex, Essex, Mathews, King & Queen, and King William Counties. It is currently represented by Keith Hodges (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Keith needs to go:
As a pharmacist, Keith should support Medicaid expansion -- it would help people currently stuck in the coverage gap access critical prescriptions. "During the first one and a half years of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the number of prescriptions filled by adults using Medicaid coverage increased by 19 percent in states that expanded Medicaid compared to states that did not," according to a new study. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study reports that the "largest increases were for medications to manage chronic conditions" such as diabetes and mental health conditions.
3,000 people in the 98th District would be covered if Medicaid was expanded in Virginia. Keith's excuse for opposing expansion? "The federal government has never funded what it promised." This is an odd answer given that it is his party threatening to slash Medicaid payments to expansion states. As Governor McAuliffe recently observed, the ACA is the "law of the land," and Virginia has "forfeited over $10 billion by not expanding Medicaid – Virginians’ taxpayer dollars that have gone to Washington and [will] not come back."
Contact the campaign: ari@crowleyforva98.com
FRANCIS STEVENS
Meet the candidate: Francis Stevens
Francis Stevens, who was born and raised in the Philippines, lives in Chesterfield County with his wife of twenty-seven years, Michele. They have two children who attend the Chesterfield public school system. Francis's wife is a licensed psychologist and works for a local community services board. Francis is a 12-year veteran police officer -- he works for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Francis is active in his local community and the Asian American community. He has served on the Virginia Asian Advisory Board for five years and the Virginia Fair Housing Board for four years. Additionally, he is a former Council Member for the City of Petersburg. He currently attends St. Gabriel Catholic Church and is a member of the Knights of Columbus.
House District 65:
The 65th district encompasses parts of Chesterfield, Powhatan, Goochland, and Fluvanna Counties. It is currently represented by Lee Ware (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Lee needs to go:
Lee has been trying to weaken Virginia's safety laws since he was elected in 1997. During his first session in the House of Delegates, he copatroned bills like HB2458 which, among other dangerous provisions, would have removed the prohibition on carrying a concealed handgun in a restaurant or bar serving alcohol. He continued to copatron pro-gun legislation until finally, in 2003, he started introducing his own NRA-backed bills.
This year, Lee introduced a bill that would have allowed for the concealed carrying of switchblades. The bill was vetoed by Governor McAuliffe, who noted that "[l]egalizing the concealed carry of switchblade knives would needlessly endanger the lives of Virginians. Furthermore, the laws of the United States prohibit the manufacture, transportation or distribution of switchblade knives."
Contact the campaign: stevens4delegate@gmail.com
KIMBERLY TUCKER
Meet the candidate: Kimberly Tucker
Kimberly is a retired educator, a cancer survivor, a military wife, a mother, and a grassroots organizer. As a teacher and Assistant Principal, Kimberly had a firsthand look at our public school system, the impact it has on students’ lives, and the vital role it plays in our communities. That experience fostered her commitment to protecting and strengthening our public school system.
But it was a journey through our healthcare system that inspired the cornerstone of her campaign for the House of Delegates. Kimberly was successful in a battle against cancer, but understands that there might have been a very different outcome if it weren’t for the excellent medical coverage she was fortunate enough to have. That insight inspired her campaign for the House of Delegates and motivated her commitment to make sure that every man, woman, and child in Virginia has the coverage they need.
As a military wife and mother, Kimberly’s commitment to Virginia’s military families is deeply rooted and personal. Her husband of 23 years, Johnny Tucker, retired after a distinguished career as member of the U.S. Marine Corps. Her two older children — William and Brandon — served in the Air Force and Army respectively, while her youngest, Brianna, is in the Army Reserves and is enrolled in ROTC. Kimberly is proud of her family’s long and storied history in Virginia Beach, especially its enduring ties to the Seatack community.
The founder of one of the largest grassroots activist groups in Hampton Roads, Kimberly has demonstrated the clear ability to channel the energy of our communities into meaningful engagement for change. Her campaign for the House of Delegates for Virginia’s 81st district can be summed up in her campaign’s motto: “I’m not running for office, I’m running for you.” The experience she brings to this race — as a teacher, administrator, cancer survivor, and change agent — will ensure that the voice of the people will finally be heard in Richmond.
House District 81:
The 81st encompasses parts of Virginia Beach and Chesapeake Cities. It is currently represented by Barry Knight (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Barry needs to go:
Barry Knight, one of the richest members of the House of Delegates, has enriched himself in ways that are technically not illegal, but are at least questionable. Until now, he has been able to avoid scrutiny or accountability in large part because he has not faced a Democratic challenger since his first election.
Additionally, he has aligned himself with ALEC, the notoriously shadowy organization backed by conservative and corporate interests. In 2017, according to a Progress VA report, Barry copatroned four of their "model" bills, including one that would allow "the Governor to stack the Board of Education with pro-charter advocates in order to circumvent the preferences and authority of local school districts," and another that would issue "a call for a federal constitutional amendment that would permit the repeal of any federal law by a vote of two-thirds of state legislatures."
Contact the campaign kat@kimberlyannetucker.com
Volume XI
Volume XI
flip-a-district fridays:
volume XI
STEVE AYCOCK
Meet the candidate: Steve Aycock
Steve is the son of a union factory worker and dental assistant. He and his wife Pam have four children and fifteen grandchildren. Steve and Pam have lived in the 88th District for over 20 years. He is a member of the Rappahannock-Fredericksburg Rotary, and member and past Chair of the Stafford County Democratic Committee. Steve is a retired Baptist minister.
Steve is running against one of the most conservative and polarizing members of the House: Mark Cole. Cole is infamous for his 2010 "microchip" bill, citing the book of Revelations as his rationale. See this Washington Post article, titled "Human microchips seen by some in Virginia House as device of antichrist" for more details.
House District 88:
This is a traditionally red district, but the Republicans' margins here have continued to thin in recent elections. The 88th district includes parts of Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Fauquier Counties, as well as Fredericksburg City. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Mark must go:
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, commutes to work from the three counties in the 88th District -- Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Fauquier -- are significantly longer than the average for Virginians overall. In fact, compared to other counties, those three are all in the Commonwealth's top ten for longest commutes.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Transportation found that in 2013, 17.8 percent of Virginia's bridges were classified as functionally obsolete and just 79.3 percent of our roads were of an "acceptable pavement quality." Both of those statistics were worse than the national average.
Despite these substandard conditions reported in 2013, Mark Cole voted that year against a major bipartisan transportation bill (HB 2313) that was ultimately signed into law by then-Governor Bob McDonnell (R). Even the other two Republican Delegates representing Stafford County, the county with the 88th District's worst commute, voted for the legislation. Mark has done nothing on the issue of transportation, which continues to be a huge problem facing the district, and it's time for him to move on (pun intended).
Contact the campaign: steveaycock97@gmail.com
TRACY CARVER
Meet the candidate: Tracy Carver
Tracy is a deeply rooted Virginian and proud United States Navy veteran. He is an activist and mechanic -- like most folks in the 59th District, he works hard every day.
Tracy will bring this work ethic to Richmond to work for you. His main focuses will be protecting our environment by fighting against new pipelines and stopping fracking, legalizing marijuana in the Commonwealth, and making sure Virginians have access to affordable health insurance.
House District 59:
The 59th district represents parts of Campbell, Appomattox, Buckingham, Albemarle, and Nelson Counties. It is currently represented by Matt Fariss (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Matt needs to go:
Matt Fariss introduced a purely political bill to change the way electoral college votes are allocated meant solely to disadvantage Democrats. President Barack Obama won the Commonwealth in 2008 and 2012, and polling indicated (correctly) that Secretary Hillary Clinton would win Virginia in 2016.
So, hoping to boost Republican electoral college numbers, Matt put forward a bill in 2015 that would grant two of Virginia's thirteen electoral college votes to whoever wins the Commonwealth, and distribute the other eleven based on congressional district. It's worth noting that, in large part thanks to gerrymandering, just four of our eleven congressional seats are held by Democrats. If these numbers had held, Secretary Clinton would have won less than half of Virginia's electoral college votes despite winning the popular vote here.
Contact the campaign: tracylcarver@yahoo.com
CORI JOHNSON
Meet the candidate: Cori Johnson
From the time Cori was in preschool, she knew she wanted to grow up to help people. After ten years working in emergency services, then moving to an administrative role, she realized that entering politics is the best way to make a difference.
Cori is passionately committed to public service. She started as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and after completing her education in Advanced Life Support as a Paramedic, she became a professional firefighter while continuing to provide advanced emergency medical care in a cross-trained, dual-service role.
Ten years of front-line service to people from all walks of life have given Cori unique experience tackling issues facing every level of the community. Her time as a paramedic has taught her decisive leadership, critical problem solving, and rigorous accountability. Firefighting has solidified her commitment to serving something bigger than herself.
Her recent professional experience in Fire Department Community Risk Reduction involves collaborating with key community partners and executive level leaders to build community-based programs that improve the health and safety of the public. She plans to apply the same proven, systematic approach to legislative matters and issues affecting the lives of her constituents.
House District 97:
The 97th district encompasses parts of Hanover, New Kent, and King William Counties. It is currently represented by Chris Peace (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Chris needs to go:
Chris has a very unsympathetic view of undocumented immigrants.
For example, Chris:
- Has repeatedly introduced a bill to bar undocumented young adults, also known as "DREAMers," from admission to Virginia colleges and universities,
- Voted to require that local law enforcement hold undocumented immigrants in jail past their scheduled release dates until they can be transferred to immigration authorities,
- Voted to ban sanctuary cities, a position that law enforcement across the country has argued endangers the public rather than protects it,
- and has copatroned many, many, many more anti-immigrant bills.
Contact the campaign: staff@johnsonfordelegate.com
KELLEN SQUIRE
Meet the candidate: Kellen Squire
Kellen's work as an ER Nurse on the front lines every day and his commitment to working families have helped him receive endorsements from the AFL-CIO and the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters (VPFF).
In the House of Delegates, Kellen will continue to fight for working families' rights by supporting fair and equal pay for all, providing the tools -- like broadband internet -- to succeed in the 21st century economy, and pushing to expand Medicaid in Virginia.
House District 58:
The 58th encompasses parts of Albemarle, Greene, Fluvanna, and Rockingham Counties. It is currently represented by Rob Bell (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Rob needs to go:
Rob Bell has consistently received a zero percent voting record from NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia, a fact he proudly displayed on his website when running in the Republican primary for Attorney General in 2013, though he later removed the reference (before, after). Rob has been anti-choice since he arrived in the General Assembly in 2003, when he introduced a bill that would essentially ban abortions in the Commonwealth. Since then, he voted for the infamous transvaginal ultrasound bill, to defund Planned Parenthood, to require parental consent for women under 18 to access abortion services, and to restrict access to abortion for low-income women.
Additionally, Rob is a member of the House Health, Welfare, and Institutions Committee, which oversees all health-related bills, including those concerning women's reproductive rights. In this position, Rob has ushered through all of the anti-choice bills that have ultimately come before the House since 2003. He is clearly out of touch with Virginia values, which polls have consistently shown include the right to choose.
Contact the campaign: ian@squireforyou.com
Volume XII
Volume XII
flip-a-district fridays:
volume XII
LEIGH ANNE BOWLING
Meet the candidate: Leigh Anne Bowling
Leigh Anne was born and raised in western North Carolina after her father completed his service in the United States Air Force. Her parents always reminded her, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” This family principle and Leigh Anne’s professional training and personal experiences have led to her decision to run for Delegate in the 82nd District.
Leigh Anne is particularly concerned about Virginia’s failure to expand Medicaid, adopt equal pay for equal work and living wage legislation, and address redistricting reform. Leigh Anne has served as a volunteer for the Sierra Club and is a strong opponent of offshore drilling and the Atlantic Coast pipeline. She is an advocate for labor rights, women’s reproductive rights, and the LGBTQ community, and she hopes to bring her knowledge and experience as a practicing attorney to the 82nd District as a Delegate and effectively reach across the aisle to help Virginia become the Commonwealth of real engagement. Leigh Anne also believes in keeping big money out of politics so that special interests aren’t given more power than voters.
House District 82:
The 82nd district is located within Virginia Beach City. It includes First Landing State Park, the Commonwealth's most popular state park, and Great Neck Park. It is currently represented by Jason Miyares (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Jason must go:
Jason said it himself -- "Hampton Roads and Virginia Beach are at high risk of catastrophic flooding and hurricane threats." Check out this map of the district to see just how vulnerable it is. Jason has introduced flood-related legislation that might lead one to believe that he accepts the reality and dangers of climate change, but his actual voting record on environmental issues proves that he is unwilling to break with his party when it really matters.
In fact, Jason received just a 50 percent score this year and an even worse 33 percent score in 2016 from the Virginia League of Conservation Voters. The Sierra Club gave him a grade of "F" in both 2016 and 2017.
Why? Jason voted to exempt harmful fracking chemicals from state public disclosure laws. He voted for a bill that sets the stage for the rejection of the Clean Power Plan in Virginia. He voted to give unnecessary tax credits to coal mining companies. He voted against a bill to require timely notification to authorities after a chemical or oil spill.
Jason might sometimes talk the talk on environmental issues, but he definitely does not walk the walk.
Contact the campaign:labowling4va@gmail.com
BILL BUNCH
Meet the candidate: Bill Bunch
Bill Bunch is a progressive Democrat running in deep-red Trump territory. Bill retired after thirty years of service with the U.S. Postal Service as a rural carrier, part-time flex-clerk-carrier, and substitute. His involvement in the Rural Letter Carriers Union includes service as a Local, Area and Assistant State Steward, and he has been elected to several national union conventions. He is a past State PAC Chair and is currently serving as State Provident Guild Representative.
Bill will champion Medicare-for-All, a living wage, free higher education for qualified students, legalization of marijuana, and action on climate change.
House District 3:
The 3rd district is comprised of parts of Tazewell, Buchanan, Bland, and Russell Counties -- it borders West Virginia to the North and Kentucky to the West. The district is currently represented by Will Morefield (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Will needs to go:
Will has conveniently missed a couple important votes (Exhibits A and B) on the House floor related to LGBT issues, but when he shows up, he consistently joins his Republican colleagues to pass bills that discriminate against same-sex couples and members of the LGBT community.
Additionally, since 2014 Will has served as a Subcommittee Chairman of the House Militia, Police, and Public Safety Committee. In 2015, his subcommittee quickly killed a bill that would have expanded the definition of hate crimes in Virginia to include criminal acts committed against a person because of sexual orientation or gender identification.
While no LGBT rights bills have since passed through Will's subcommittee, he had one critical opportunity to do the right thing for members of the LGBT community, and he came up short.
Contact the campaign: bilbunch@gmail.com
FRANCIS EDWARDS
Meet the candidate: Francis Edwards
Francis Edwards, a resident of Weems in Lancaster County, is a political activist turned candidate. He is passionate about health care, human rights, job creation, the environment, and education. He is the anti-fracking candidate and will work to protect our waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. “Because one wrong blast, one spill, and our way of life is gone forever. We can’t gamble with our future”.
Francis and his wife of twenty-three years, Donna, have four sons and three grandsons. Donna, a native of neighboring Gloucester County, grew up in the house her great grandfather built over one hundred years ago. Francis was raised in England and as a young man came to the United States. In London, he grew up in public housing.
Francis has had a successful career as an international business executive. For this, he credits England’s affordable education, which enabled him to attend Cambridge University where he earned a Masters Degree in engineering and a post-graduate degree in business administration. As CEO of QVC, the shopping channel, in Germany, he worked with German cable and media regulators to build
a successful business from the ground up, creating 2,400 new jobs.
For the past 10 years, he has provided resources and free consulting to more than 20 small businesses. He has been endorsed by the Virginia AFL-CIO.
Locally, Francis and Donna actively support the Animal Welfare League, helped raise funds for the Free Health Clinic and new YMCA buildings, and are lifetime supporters of the Lancaster Community Library.
House District 99:
Bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, the 99th District encompasses parts of King George, Westmoreland, Northumberland, Lancaster, Richmond, and Caroline Counties. It is currently represented by Margaret Ransone (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Margaret needs to go:
Margaret is the Chairwoman of the House Privileges and Elections Committee's Subcommittee on Elections, where she consistently kills bills -- many of which easily passed the Senate with Republican support (Exhibits A, B, C) -- that would make it easier to vote in Virginia. For example, Margaret has shot down bills that would:
- Allow for no-excuses early voting for senior citizens,
- Extend the time that New Americans have to register to vote,
- Allow for no-excuses early voting for all Virginia voters,
- Prohibit the use of political data in redistricting,
Meanwhile, she shepherded through a discriminatory bill this year that would disproportionately harm poor, elderly and minority voters by requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote. The voters of the 99th District deserve a Delegate who wants them to exercise their right to vote, not take the lead in suppressing it.
Contact the campaign: fnedwards99@gmail.com
FLO KETNER
Meet the candidate: Flo Ketner
Flourette “Flo” Ketner is a stay-at-home mother of three young children. She has lived in the New River Valley for over 25 years, having graduated from Floyd County High School and Radford University, where she majored in English.
Flo felt compelled to become more civically engaged after last year's elections and this year's Women's March in Washington. Flo decided to run to provide a more unified voice for our community and offer a comprehensive grasp of the issues that affect everyone in the district. As a mother and longtime member of the community she hopes to represent, Flo understands the unique challenges facing Southwest Virginia.
She plans to bring these concerns with her to Richmond to ensure that the children of the 7th District have the same opportunities as children living in wealthier areas. This is why Flo is advocating for last-mile broadband connectivity and will work to boost economic development in the region. If elected, Flo will also stand against the proposed Mountain Valley Pipeline and champion corporate finance and tax reform.
House District 7:
Just south of Virginia Tech, the 7th District encompasses parts of Montgomery, Pulaski, and Floyd Counties. It is currently represented by Nick Rush (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Nick needs to go:
Although Nick's website has since hidden the "Issues" page, a look at his old (and since deleted) website reveals exactly what he thinks "our values" are -- "Pro-Life, Pro-Gun, Pro-Family."
These are not Virginia values. Polls show that we are pro-choice, pro-gun safety, and pro-same sex marriage.
On the subject of women's health care, Nick has received a failing grade from NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia every year since he was elected. His first year in office, he voted for the infamous transvaginal ultrasound bill and to defund Planned Parenthood. The following year, he voted for a budget amendment that would ban any private health insurance plan being offered through Affordable Care Act exchanges from including basic coverage for abortion care. This year Nick voted for the demeaning "Day of Tears" resolution that encourages Virginians to fly their flags at half mast on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade.
The 7th District deserves representation by someone who understands the values actually held by most Virginians.
Contact the campaign: Flo.Ketner@FloKetner.com
Volume XIII
Volume XIII
flip-a-district fridays:
volume XIII
STEPHANIE COOK
Meet the candidate: Stephanie Cook
Stephanie is a community activist and public school teacher. After graduating from Franklin County High School she moved to Florida to attend college, but her love for Virginia and the area brought her back home in 2012. Stephanie has faced massive student loan debt, worked 60+ hour work weeks in a local factory, married, and transitioned to teaching while raising three children. She knows firsthand the plight of Virginia’s working families and remains dedicated to helping others through her volunteer work with local churches and nursing homes.
Like her fellow residents of the Ninth District, Stephanie is a fighter. She will take the fight for good jobs, quality healthcare, and a world-class education system right to Richmond. She knows there is far more work to be done to ensure that the Ninth District can and will be the best place to live, work, and raise a family.
Stephanie and her family are residents of Rocky Mount, Virginia. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies from Stetson University and is currently pursuing her Master’s at Liberty University where she is focusing on Special Education.
House District 9:
Just south of Roanoke, the district's southern edge makes up part of the border between Virginia and North Carolina. The 9th District encompasses parts of Franklin, Patrick, and Henry Counties. It is currently represented by Charles Poindexter (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Charles must go:
Charles is steadfastly opposed to Medicaid expansion and has used his position as a member of the House Appropriations Committee to stop it again and again.
Charles has railed against expansion both as a member of the Medicaid Innovation & Reform Commission (MIRC) and through his website, arguing that expansion is "poor policy balanced on the backs of Virginia taxpayers." This is an odd argument, considering Virginia taxpayers' money is already funding Medicaid expansion in other states. The Commonwealth has already forfeited $10 billion by not expanding Medicaid. In response to calls from Virginia hospitals to expand, Charles chose to point fingers instead of respond with substance, stating that “[w]e’re sympathetic to the hospitals, but Virginia didn’t cause the problem...The ACA caused the problem.”
Charles' position is particularly puzzling given that the 9th District includes 4,600 people who would directly benefit from Medicaid expansion, making the district 15th of one hundred House of Delegate districts when ranked by how many people would be covered by expansion. Click here to read a touching story about one of Charles' constituents who desperately needs coverage through Medicaid expansion.
Contact the campaign: cookfordelegate@gmail.com
JAMAAL JOHNSTON
Meet the candidate: Jamaal Johnston
Jamaal Johnston has lived in Prince Edward County for over 25 years. He and his wife, Zakiyyah, have been married for 19 years and have three sons and a daughter. He became an entrepreneur directly after high school and built his own small business, White Hawk Security International, Inc. While continuing to grow and operate his business, Jamaal earned his Bachelor’s Degree in International Business from Strayer University and his MBA in Project Management from Walden University. He is currently a candidate for a Doctorate of Business Administration degree.
Jamaal is dedicated to improving his community and the quality of life for all residents, and believes serving as an elected representative is the ultimate public service. His top priority is improving Virginia's educational system, because he understands that a quality education is a difference-maker -- a first-rate education can open doors for people in rural areas who would not otherwise have a chance to better themselves. To encourage students to take full advantage of their opportunities, Jamaal started a nonprofit organization called The 500K Club, which works with students beginning in their freshman year of high school and mentors them until they graduate college.
Along with improving our education system, Jamaal will focus on fixing the broken parts of our criminal justice system and bring principle-based leadership back into public service. He will work diligently to get results through the most productive route instead of simply echoing answers proposed by one single party. He is dedicated to making positive change without clinging to party lines or old ideas.
House District 60:
The 60th District is comprised of parts of Halifax, Prince Edward, Charlotte, and Campbell Counties. Just south of Lynchburg and west of Danville, it borders North Carolina. The district is currently represented by James Edmunds (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why James needs to go:
James has not only echoed the type of divisive, dog-whistle language that President Trump does ("Trump gave us hope that we could go back to the America that we knew before"), he became a part of the "fake news" problem that we know negatively affected the 2016 presidential election.
In September 2016, James made headline news in his local paper for distributing an article from a fake news website, "The Baltimore Gazette," a site that famously asserted that every presidential race since John F. Kennedy's election has been rigged. The fabricated article James shared claimed that Secretary Clinton received all of the questions in advance ahead of a debate with Donald Trump. When pushed about why he chose to spread fake news, James responded, "I didn’t post it, I just shared it." When asked to take down the well-debunked article because of his influential position as a Delegate, he admitted that "I can see where people might take more credence [in the information] because I shared it," but he ultimately refused, stating that "[w]hen you take something down, it infers you’ve done something wrong."
James is not only part of the fake news problem, he knows it, and refuses to back down. The 60th District deserves better.
Contact the campaign: jamaal@johnstonfordelegate.org
NATALIE SHORT
Meet the candidate: Natalie Short
Natalie Short is a wife and mother of two children. She moved to Lynchburg four years ago with her family and formed a deep love for the city and the community. She is a member of the Lynchburg Democratic Committee, and has worked as a paralegal and field director.
Last year as a field director for New Virginia Majority, she was able to speak to hundreds of people in the community, hearing their needs and concerns first-hand. Natalie was moved to step up and represent them.
In 2012 Natalie volunteered at an orphanage named LAR in Brazil, and it was there that she learned the importance of investing in our children's futures and what it takes to set them up for success. After returning from Brazil, she immersed herself in learning the needs of her local community's children and families.
Natalie wants to be an advocate and a strong voice for our area, particularly for those who feel that they are not being heard.
House District 23:
Although this district is traditionally Republican, the margin here has been shrinking. Bordered in parts by Goose Creek and the James River, the 23rd District encompasses parts of Lynchburg City, Bedford County, and Amherst County. It is currently represented by Scott Garrett (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Scott needs to go:
As a member of the House Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee, Scott has shepherded through some of the worst bills to come before the House of Delegates -- many of them seem intent on making it more difficult for Virginia's most vulnerable populations to receive the assistance they desperately need. For example, Scott voted in Committee for bills that would:
- Reduce the amount of time during which financially struggling Virginians can receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits (this bill was tabled in the House Committee on Appropriations),
- Impose needless, burdensome requirements on the administration of nutrition assistance by the Department of Social Services (this bill was vetoed by Governor McAuliffe),
- Require the Department of Social Services to publish a report including individually identifiable information for every refugee who is resettled in Virginia (this bill was vetoed by Governor McAuliffe), and
- Add costly, time-consuming, and unnecessary steps when the Department of Social Services evaluates an applicant's eligibility for public assistance (this bill was vetoed by Governor McAuliffe).
Scott's votes are particularly concerning considering the economics of this district. Take, for example, Lynchburg City, 66 percent of which is located in the 23rd District. Lynchburg CIty has a poverty rate more than double Virginia's average (24.8 percent versus 11.2 percent) and an extremely low median household income compared to the rest of the Commonwealth ($39,589 versus $65,015). This district needs a Delegate who will fight for struggling families, not make their lives more difficult.
Contact the campaign: contact@natalieshortfordelegate.com
MICHAEL WADE
Meet the candidate: Michael Wade
Michael Wade has lived in Virginia’s peninsula region since 1997. As an active community member, he is keenly aware of the challenges that residents in the District face every day. While working in cyber security full time, Wade is also completing his Bachelor’s of Science degree at Old Dominion University. He is majoring in computer science and minoring in cybersecurity. Michael is also a husband and father to two young girls.
Wade is passionate about a number of policy areas, particularly the expansion of Medicaid, environmental protection, and supporting hard-working Virginian families. He plans to actively advocate for these policies in the Virginia House of Delegates with the goal of lifting up the concerns and priorities of folks in the 91st District and throughout the Commonwealth.
House District 91:
The 7th District encompasses parts of Hampton City, York County, and Poquoson City. The district is situated on the southwestern end of the Virginia Peninsula in the Hampton Roads region. It is currently represented by Gordon Helsel (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Gordon needs to go:
Gordon has a solid record when it comes to trying to limit Virginians' ability to vote. In 2017, he supported bills that would:
- Require proof of citizenship (with a passport or birth certificate) in order to register to vote, which would disproportionately disenfranchise elderly, poor, and minority voters,
- Require registrars to cross check voters' social security numbers in order to register someone to vote, meaning an error in the Social Security Administration's database or simply forgetting one's social security number would prevent an otherwise eligible voter from registering, and
- Cut the amount of time that Virginians have to register to vote online.
Gordon has also copatroned bills to make it more difficult for the Governor to restore felons' voting rights and to require proof of citizenship, proof of residence, AND a photo ID to register to vote. The 91st District deserves better representation than someone who doesn't seem to want its citizens to exercise their fundamental right to vote.
Contact the campaign: phoenix@michaelwadefordelegate.com
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Volume XIV
flip-a-district fridays:
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MORGAN GOODMAN
Meet the candidate: Morgan Goodman
Morgan Goodman is a lifelong Virginian who lives with her husband Mike and two young children in Mechanicsville. She serves on the PTA Board and is Co-Leader of her daughter’s Brownie Troop.
Morgan holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Policy and currently works for the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. She previously worked for the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice.
“Voters in the 55th District are hungry for real representation,” says Morgan. “They see Buddy Fowler as someone who is primarily beholden to corporate and party interests. They see him as more interested in making a point than making a difference. They need – and deserve – to be the priority instead of the Republican Party. I listen at the doors I knock on – the District's residents are my priority.”
House District 55:
Just north of Richmond and south of Fredericksburg, the 55th District encompasses parts of Hanover, Caroline, and Spotsylvania Counties. It is currently represented by Buddy Fowler (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Buddy must go:
As a member of the House Privileges and Elections Committee, Buddy has a consistent record of voting for bills seemingly aimed at voter suppression (Exhibits A, B, and C). What stands out, however, is that Buddy introduced one of most baffling voter ID bills to come before the House of Delegates this year.
Buddy's bill would have required voters submitting an absentee ballot application by mail or by fax to also include a photocopy of one of the forms of ID acceptable under current law. This bill makes no logical sense. Even if one accepts the debunked presumption that voter fraud is a widespread threat, the bill "provides no means of verifying the identity of the individual depicted in the submitted photograph," noted Governor McAuliffe in his veto statement.
Contact the campaign: ljordan@goodmanfordelegate.com
JAY JONES
Meet the candidate: Jay Jones
Jerrauld “Jay” Jones is the Democratic nominee in the House of Delegates' 89th District. Guided by his family’s example and legacy, Jay strives to make a positive impact in his community each and every day. He has served as a mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization and a tutor and mentor to local schoolchildren. Jay has significant experience with the Virginia legislature, having served as a page in the Virginia House of Delegates during the 2003 General Assembly session and as a legislative intern to Delegates Paula Miller and Algie Howell.
Currently, Jay serves as a Board Member of the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Virginia. He is also a Board Member of Festevents, Ltd., the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation, and the Old Dominion University Athletic Foundation’s Next Generation Board. Jay is a lifelong member of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception.
Jay completed his undergraduate studies at the College of William and Mary, where he was a double major in Government and History. He went on to obtain his law degree from the University of Virginia. Upon graduating, Jay began practicing law in Norfolk, where he is currently a partner with Bischoff Martingayle P.C. Prior to attending law school, Jay was an associate with Goldman Sachs, focusing on risk management and rating advisory.
House District 89:
Secretary Hillary Clinton won this district by an overwhelming 78 percent of the vote. The 89th District is located entirely within Norfolk City, and is currently represented by retiring Delegate Daun Hester (D). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Terry win:
Jay is running against Libertarian candidate Terry Hurst. Terry freely admits that flooding and sea level rise are "recurring and increased," but like many (especially Republicans) before him, he refuses to say why the changes are occurring. Even in his long blog post on flood mitigation, there's not one mention of climate change or global warming. According to Terry, there's apparently no point in "arguing the cause" of catastrophic weather events.
Recognizing that climate change is the cause of rising sea levels and changing weather patterns should not be up for debate. For Terry to assert that discussing the cause of massive flooding and rising sea levels in his community is a waste of time makes him part of the problem. After all, how can you truly fix a problem if you refuse to admit the cause?
Contact the campaign: alex@jayjones.vote
ANGELA LYNN
Meet the candidate: Angela Lynn
Angela has been dedicated to strengthening her community and improving the lives of those in need for years. After Hurricane Katrina, Angela joined FEMA as a Command and Recovery Specialist. She was deployed to disaster areas across the country where she worked to help families and communities rebuild. She has also served on disaster preparedness teams for local American Red Cross agencies.
Active in her community, Angela has taught in the Albemarle County school system, volunteered as a PTA president and Council Member, and directed several community boards. Angela currently serves on the Albemarle County Department of Social Services Advisory Board, the Agricultural and Forestal District Advisory Board, and the Public Recreational Facilities Authority. Angela also previously served on the Board of One Virginia 2021, trying to end gerrymandering and establish an independent redistricting commission.
Angela is running to reform campaign finance laws, restore faith and transparency in government, fully fund our public schools, expand Medicaid and ensure our environment is protected.
House District 25:
The 25th District comprises sections of Augusta, Albemarle, and Rockingham Counties. It includes parts of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest and the southern piece of Shenandoah National Park. The district is currently represented by Steve Landes (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Steve needs to go:
As Chairman of the House Education Committee, Steve has significant power over which education-related bills come before the full House of Delegates for a vote. Unfortunately, he has used this position to promote bills that would seriously threaten funding for Virginia's public school system. This session, he backed highly partisan measures that would have:
- Drained money away from the public school system to private and parochial schools through a "Virginia Parental Choice Education Savings Account,"
- Disadvantaged public school children who compete in interscholastic sports,
- Diverted money from Virginia public schools to charter schools that are independent from local school boards,
- and created a "Virtual School Board," which would outsource public education to private contractors, an idea championed by ALEC, an extremely shadowy, corporation-backed, conservative organization.
It's no wonder Steve received a failing grade from the Virginia Education Association this year.
Contact the campaign: spencer@lynnforvirginia.com
CASEY TURBEN
Meet the candidate: Casey Turben
It was in the 29th District that Casey developed a love of history, earned the rank of Eagle Scout in the local area Boy Scout Council, and graduated from James Wood High School. As a teenager, Casey transformed his love of music into a professional DJ service that he has owned and operated ever since. Upon graduation, he coached football for James Wood while studying History and Political Science at Shenandoah University. During his college career Casey remained involved in public service through volunteer-coaching youth sports, assisting in community history projects, and making his business’s services available free-of-charge to community non-profits.
Casey is seriously concerned about the status of the American Dream. The stress of rising health care costs, decreased economic mobility, and policies that negatively affect middle class families have threatened Virginians' hope for a safe and prosperous life in exchange for a hard day’s work.
That is why Casey is running to be the voice of the 29th District in Richmond. His commitment is to ensuring that his community is well-represented in the House of Delegates and is able to take the lead on vocational training and skills for “new collar” jobs. He is also focused on strengthening Virginia's public schools while making sure that competitive pay for educators is a top-tier priority. Casey will fight to ensure that the working families of the 29th District can and will take part in the Commonwealth’s current and future prosperity.
House District 29:
The 29th District represents the northernmost point of Virginia, bordered on the east and west by West Virginia. The district includes parts of Frederick County, Winchester City, and Warren County. It is currently represented by Chris Collins (R). Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why Chris needs to go:
Chris is a newer member in the General Assembly, but his views on access to reproductive health care services are definitely outdated. At a town hall this year he stated, "I disagree that taxpayer money should go to Planned Parenthood, so long as Planned Parenthood is providing abortions, that’s my position.”
It's bad enough that Chris denies a woman's right to choose -- unfortunately, he also finds it easy to write off the value of the vast number of critical services that Planned Parenthood provides for women (and men). Because Planned Parenthood provides abortions (which make up a very small percentage of the services it performs), Chris is willing to take away Virginian women's access to critical services like prenatal care, breast cancer screenings, STD testing, treatment, and prevention, and pap smears.
Taxpayer funding does not fund abortions. Legislators like Chris should not punish people who need access to Planned Parenthood's non-abortion services -- they should instead encourage their constituents to seek the screenings and treatment they need.
Contact the campaign: info@turbenfordelegate.com
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JOHN BELL
Meet the candidate: John Bell
Delegate John Bell is a retired member of the United States Air Force. He served almost 26 years before retiring as a Major in 2007. John enlisted in the Air Force in 1981 after graduating from high school because he believes in fighting for what is right.
During his Air Force career John served as a Finance Officer all over the world, including tours in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was consistently recognized during his career as an outstanding performer and was named the #1 Non Commissioned Officer out of over 5,000 assigned to the Far East in 1992. After completing his bachelors degree in Business Administration and graduating Summa Cum Laude -- while serving full time in the Air Force -- from Regis University, he was selected for Officer Training School. At Officer Training School, John finished in the top ten percent of graduates and was named a Distinguished Graduate. John was also a Distinguished Graduate of Squadron Officer’s School and was named the U.S. Air Force’s 2006 Outstanding Contributor to Financial Management and Comptrollership.
A member of the Virginia House of Delegates since January 2016, John has stood up to extreme politicians in Richmond, and worked across the aisle to put your values first. He supports expanding access to health care and protecting women's rights. As a veteran and a father, he knows we need responsible gun safety laws to keep our children safe at school. And as a fiscally responsible Delegate, John believes the government should respect your tax dollars. He will never stop fighting for your values and priorities.
House District 87:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 60 percent of the vote. The 87th District encompasses parts of Loudoun and Prince William Counties. Delegate Bell has represented the district since 2016, and is being challenged by Republican Subba Kolla this November. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Subba win:
Subba Kolla nominated President Trump at the GOP Convention in Cleveland. He said quite clearly that they share the "same core values." That said, beyond his passionate support of the Republican Party, he rarely talks about what his core values actually are. Before he became a passionate Trump supporter, Subba was a big Ted Cruz backer. Before that, he was a Marco Rubio fan. When asked about his changing allegiances, Subba simply stated that he a "party loyalist."
This is an interesting quote given that prior to 2016, Subba contributed money exclusively to Democrats according to FEC reports. This might lead one to believe that Subba is bipartisan, except that he proclaims now that he is a "conservative Republican." So what does Subba stand for? His website gives no policy specifics and in a LoudounNow article, he admits that he "is still formulating detailed policy ideas."
The 87th District deserves a Delegate with concrete ideas, not someone who seems more interested in politics than policy.
Contact the campaign: jhixson@johnbellfordelegate.com
JENNIFER BOYSKO
Meet the candidate: Jennifer Boysko
Delegate Jennifer Boysko represents the 86th District in the Virginia House of Delegates, serving Herndon, Oak Hill, parts of Chantilly and Sterling Park. She was elected in 2015 and serves on the House of Delegates Privileges and Elections Committee and the Counties, Cities and Towns Committee. She is also a legislative member on Virginia’s Broadband Advisory Committee.
Prior to being elected to the House of Delegates, Jennifer served as the Herndon liaison for the Dranesville District Member of the Board of Supervisors, John Foust. She also served as Governor McAuliffe’s citizen appointee to the Virginia Board of Real Estate and as a Board Member of NARAL Pro-Choice VA. She continues to volunteer in her local community with the Herndon Fortnightly Club, the Rotary Club, the Dulles Area Democrats and serves on the Virginia Democratic State Central Committee.
House District 86:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 63 percent of the vote. The 86th District includes parts of Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. Delegate Boysko has represented the district since 2015, and is being challenged by Republican Linda Schulz this November. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Linda win:
Linda wants to make it harder for women seeking abortion services to receive care. She supports Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers (TRAP) laws that require abortion clinics to adhere to hospital construction standards. These medically unnecessary (even major doctors' groups weighed in to oppose them) and burdensome rules are often used as a backdoor attempt to shut down abortion access. In Kentucky, for example, state TRAP laws have led to the closing of all but one abortion clinic.
The issue of TRAP laws recently came before the Supreme Court in Planned Parenthood v. Abbott (2016), when an abortion clinic in Texas sued Texas Governor Greg Abbott over HB 2, a controversial bill that state Senator Wendy Davis famously filibustered for eleven straight hours. Ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled in a five-to-three vote that the laws were unconstitutional as they put an "undue burden" on women seeking care.
Virginia instead needs legislators like Jennifer Boysko, a women's health advocate who supports science over ideology when it comes to health care access.
Contact the campaign: Tripp@JenniferBoysko.com
MIKE MULLIN
Meet the candidate: Mike Mullin
Mike is passionate about a lot of issues, and it's one reason he is such a good Delegate for the 93rd District of Virginia. In his first year as a legislator, he passed four bills -- more than any other freshman legislator in the House of Delegates. Mike excels at turning his experiences and understanding of the communities of the Peninsula into real results for his constituents. He is most proud of his bill to ensure that people who commit domestic violence are not eligible for "first offender status" if they have committed other violent felonies.
When Mike is not in Richmond serving as a Delegate, he is a criminal prosecutor and resident of Newport News. He came to the Peninsula as a 17-year-old college freshman at Christopher Newport University. He loved the city so much he wanted to raise his family here, so he returned after earning his law degree. Mike and his wife Laura have three children and live in Kiln Creek. The Mullin family are active, long-time members of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Newport News.
Mike is a Certified Gang Investigator by the Virginia Gang Investigator's Association and volunteers his time to stop gang violence in our communities. He is a graduate of the Sorensen Institute of Political Leadership and a member of the Christopher Newport University Alumni Society.
House District 93:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 57 percent of the vote. The 93rd District comprises sections of Newport News City, James City County, Williamsburg City, and York County. Delegate Mike Mullin has represented the district since 2017. He faces a rematch this November with Republican Heather Cordasco, whom he defeated in 2016. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Heather win:
Heather strongly opposes a woman's right to choose, but also says that she believes choice is not a "state legislature issue." Heather might think that being evasive about the topic with voters will cause them to ignore her anti-choice position, but her record proves that she understands exactly how much influence state government has in access to abortion services.
As a former board member of the Family Foundation of Virginia, Heather "support[ed] their stand against the Virginia Board of Health's proposed roll back of restrictions on abortion clinics." She even signed a petition supporting the anti-abortion, medically unnecessary TRAP laws that Wendy Davis filibustered (for more details, see above section on Linda Schulz) in Texas.
It's also worth noting that Heather is an active member of "Women Speak for Themselves," a radically conservative pro-life group that even opposes basic contraception and "cohabitation." It does not matter if Heather will ever admit that women's reproductive rights are an issue for the General Assembly -- it's clear from what Heather says and what groups she actively supports that a major priority of hers will be to roll back the right to choose.
Contact the campaign: campaign@mullinforvirginia.com
KATHLEEN MURPHY
Meet the candidate: Kathleen Murphy
Delegate Kathleen Murphy is running for re-election to represent the 34th District. While in Richmond, she has been a fierce advocate for implementing commonsense gun safety legislation, providing resources for our veterans, and making sure Virginia has an economy that works for everyone.
Kathleen is a small business owner. She previously worked in Legislative Affairs at USAID, as a Senior Advisor on International Trade issues at the Department of Commerce, and as senior staff for Congressman Charlie Wilson (D-TX), for whom she handled Defense and Foreign Operations appropriations.
House District 34:
Secretary Hillary Clinton won this district with 56 percent of the vote. The 34th District includes parts of Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, and has been represented by Delegate Kathleen Murphy since 2015. Delegate Murphy faces Republican challenger Cheryl Buford this November. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Cheryl win:
Cheryl says that she will "work across party lines" if elected, but one look at her Facebook account reveals just how partisan she actually is. Cheryl has written extremely conservative posts including the following:
- On Republicans' conspiracy theories about Benghazi: "I hope lawmakers continue to press this issue!"
- On a Fox News article claiming that legal marijuana dispensaries are being targeted by gangs: "Great!"
- On the Affordable Care Act according to an op-ed in a far right American financial research and media company: "Pretty dire picture. Why are we doing this?"
- On a socially conservative op-ed claiming that women not marrying early harms them: "Important research!"
While talk of bipartisanship may be appealing at first, Cheryl's rhetoric when she wasn't running for public office speaks more honestly to her extremely partisan preferences.
Contact the campaign: info@murphyfordelegate.com
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Volume XVI
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BETSY CARR
Meet the candidate: Betsy Carr
Betsy Carr was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2009 representing parts of the City of Richmond and the County of Chesterfield on both sides of the James River. In addition to serving as a Delegate, she also served for 16 years as outreach director at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in downtown Richmond. She is a founder and past director of the Micah Initiative, which involves over 120 faith communities in partnerships with 25 city elementary schools, providing over 1,700 mentors, tutors and volunteers. This program is serving as a model for other similar partnerships in the country.
Betsy represented the fifth district of the City of Richmond on the Richmond School Board from 2006-2010. Betsy also has worked as Supervisor of Statewide Programs at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Community Relations and Resource Development Chairperson at the University of Richmond’s Women’s Resource Center, and as a Development Associate at the Virginia Historical Society. While active in the Junior League she chaired the training committee.
She is a graduate of Hope in the Cities’ Connecting Communities Fellowship Program and studied at the University of Richmond’s Management Training Institute. In 2005, Betsy was selected to receive one of the YWCA’s Outstanding Women Awards. In 2008, she served on the Virginia State Capitol Civil Rights Memorial Celebration Committee. An exhibition of Betsy’s photographs, taken during a World Neighbors trip to Mali, Africa, hangs in the Wilder Museum at Virginia Union University.
Betsy is an honors graduate of Hollins College (now Hollins University). She is the first Hollins graduate to be elected to serve in the Virginia General Assembly. She has three sons and four grandchildren.
House District 69:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 83 percent of the vote. The 69th District encompasses parts of Richmond City and Chesterfield County. Delegate Carr has represented the district since 2010, and is being challenged by Libertarian Jake Crocker and Green Party candidate Montigue Magruder this November. Click here for more district details.
Contact the campaign: info@betsycarr.org
KAYE KORY
Meet the candidate: Kaye Kory
Delegate Kaye Kory and her husband Ross have lived in Fairfax County for over 30 years. Kaye’s three children — Matthew, Sandy and Caroline — all attended Fairfax County Public Schools and are graduates of J.E.B. Stuart High School. In addition to 10 years of service on the Fairfax County School Board, Kaye has been an active leader in a diverse range of community organizations including: the Annandale Chamber of Commerce; the Virginia League of Conservation Voters and the NAACP. She has been a sustaining member of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee since 2001.
Although Kaye has achieved prominence in education issues, her activist roots run broad and deep. For a full list of her work in the community, click here.
House District 38:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 70 percent of the vote. The 38th District is located entirely within Fairfax County. Delegate Kory has represented the district since 2010, and is being challenged by Republican Paul Haring this November. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Paul win:
Haring is extremely anti-choice and is the former Executive Director of Americans United For Life. On his website from his 2016 congressional run, Haring speaks almost exclusively about all of the work he has done to try to ban abortion. The website's "News" section comprises a single bizarre post about the definition of "barbaric," writing --
"Hillary this well describes what you had done when you voted to allow abortionist to stick scissors in the back of the heads of living babies to suck their brains out when the babies were half-way outside the mother’s womb and half- way inside the mothers. Anyone who would do this is unfit for any office."
On his website for his run for the House of Delegates, Haring argues that the "most important issue is whether we should encourage the 'culture of life' or continue to encourage the 'culture of death'." This extreme language reinforces just how dangerous Haring would be in the House -- he would ignore women's health in favor of anti-science, far-right propaganda.
Contact the campaign: info@kayekory.com
ALFONSO LOPEZ
Meet the candidate: Alfonso Lopez
Delegate Alfonso Lopez is working to build a Commonwealth that lifts everyone up and leaves no one behind. With over 25 years of legislative experience, he has been an effective voice for our values and priorities in Richmond. Alfonso has served as an Obama Administration appointee, Kaine Administration cabinet-level appointee, and a three-term member of the House of Delegates. He has championed legislation creating the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, promoting new renewable energy, and supporting small business to strengthen our economy and create new jobs.
Alfonso currently serves as the Whip of the Virginia House Democratic Caucus and is the founder and chair of the Virginia Environment and Renewable Energy Caucus in the General Assembly. He lives with his wife Sarah and his sons Aaron and Gabe in South Arlington.
House District 49:
Secretary Clinton won this district with 77 percent of the vote. The 49th District comprises parts of Arlington and Fairfax Counties. Delegate Alfonso Lopez has represented the district since 2012. He faces Republican Adam Roosevelt this November. Click here for more district details.
Just one example of why we cannot let Adam win:
Roosevelt strongly opposes Medicaid expansion, claiming that it would cost Virginians "more in taxes." This statement ignores the fact that Virginia taxpayers are already paying for Medicaid expansion in other states -- the Commonwealth forfeits a whopping $2.4 billion every year that it does not expand Medicaid.
Roosevelt's opposition also fails to consider what is best for the residents of the 49th District. The 49th is ranked second of all one hundred House of Delegates districts in terms of how many people currently in the coverage gap would benefit from Medicaid expansion. This district deserves a Delegate who will put its residents above partisan talking points -- Alfonso Lopez.
Contact the campaign: alfonso@alfonsolopez.org
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Volume XVII
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In the past 16 issues of Flip-a-District, we have spotlighted ALL of our fantastic Democratic candidates running for the House of Delegates in November.
Now it's time to focus on getting out the vote...everywhere.
Today we're providing information on exactly how Virginians in every county and independent city* can vote early absentee in-person if they are unable to make it to the polls on Election Day. For information on and instructions regarding absentee voting by mail, click here. For a full list of reasons that someone can cast a ballot early in-person or by mail, click here.
*Please note that not all counties and independent cities have full information online about how to vote absentee in-person -- in those cases, we have linked to the most helpful site available or provided a hyperlink that will produce an email ready to send directly to the local registrar.
To find out which county or independent city you live in, click here.
In-Person Absentee Voting Information -- Counties
In-Person Absentee Voting Information -- Independent Cities
Volume XVIII
Volume XVIII
flip-a-district fridays:
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Welcome to the 18th edition of Flip-a-District Friday, or as we're calling it again this week, Forward-to-a-Friend Friday. This week we break down for you exactly where those important 17 districts are that Clinton won but are currently held by Republican Delegates. If our voters show up, we can win those districts.
We encourage you to check in with friends and family who live in these districts and urge them to make a plan to vote, and to contact their Democratic candidate to volunteer or contribute. We are in the home stretch--every vote will count.
They can confirm which House of Delegates District they live in here.
Clinton-Republican Districts
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Volume XIX
flip-a-district fridays:
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Welcome to another volume of Flip-a-District Friday. With just 11 days until Election Day, we are working statewide and around the clock to get out the vote. Today we're asking you to contribute a bit of your most precious resource -- your time.
Can you make time over these next 11 days to help our candidates knock on doors and talk with voters, to make sure they remember to vote?
Since this is our 19th Edition of FADF, we are providing below canvass launch details for 19 of our great Democratic House candidates. The evidence is overwhelming that door-to-door, personal canvassing is the most effective and efficient method of voter mobilization. Click here to read the proof. So let's take advantage of this warm fall weather and boost turnout.
When more people vote in Virginia, Democrats win.
We are in the home stretch -- every door knocked will aid our push to 51 in the House of Delegates, and help show the world that Virginians can and will rise above Donald Trump's bullying and intolerance.
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Volume XX
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Welcome to Project Blue Dominion's final Flip-a-District for the 2017 cycle, the "Why We Fight" Edition.
We have four days left until Election Day. We are all tired. We've knocked on countless doors, phone-banked for hours, reached out to family and friends about the election, made financial contributions, and more. But we can't let fatigue set in.
Now is the time to remember WHY we fight
Our goals are not just words, but a reflection of the deeply held values and priorities that fuel us.
As the House Democratic Caucus Campaign Chair, I'm working every day to pick up seats in the House of Delegates so that we can achieve real progress in Virginia.
Just imagine -- with a majority in the General Assembly we could:
- Roll back partisan gerrymandering:
Whoever sits in the Governor's Mansion and controls the General Assembly will have immense power over redistricting after the next census in 2020. We need to make sure that voters choose their politicians, not the other way around. Let's establish a nonpartisan redistricting process.
- Make it easier to vote:
Voter suppression efforts in Virginia -- with baseless warnings of "voter fraud" -- are relentless, pervasive and a danger to our democracy. We should focus on making it easier for people to voice their opinions at the ballot box by, for example, allowing no-excuses early voting.
- Grow the renewable energy sector:
Virginia has an enormous untapped potential for clean, reliable energy through solar, wind, and more. We need to focus on using our energy more efficiently. We must move our energy portfolio into the 21st century and pave the way for clean energy jobs throughout the Commonwealth.
- Prevent and mitigate the effects of climate change:
Climate change is a real, imminent threat to Virginia's environment, economy, and public health. We should confront this reality head-on by taking steps to reduce our carbon emissions and prepare our coastal communities for severe weather events.
- Expand Medicaid:
Medicaid expansion is long overdue in the Commonwealth -- we've already sent billions of taxpayer dollars to states that are expanding, while hundreds of thousands of Virginians are stuck in the coverage gap. No one should have to choose between paying for food or critical health care services.
- Protect and expand women's rights:
Extremists in the General Assembly try every year to roll back women's access to reproductive health care services. It's time to stop voting on whether to defund Planned Parenthood and start discussing how we empower women in the Commonwealth. The wage gap for women in Virginia, for example, is inexcusable and needs to be addressed.
- Pass comprehensive gun safety legislation:
Virginia has suffered through enough gun-related crime and death. It's time to rally behind commonsense gun safety legislation that puts public and mental health first -- "thoughts and prayers" are simply not enough to prevent the next tragedy.
- Work toward a modern immigration system:
As we've seen in the governor's race, some are willing to exploit racial biases in the immigration debate to score political points with their "base." The fear-mongering must end. We need to talk instead about welcoming new Americans and celebrate the growing diversity of Virginia's population.
- Strengthen Virginia's public school system:
We need to guarantee children's access to a high quality public education system with a focus on early childhood education, drop-out prevention, the STEAM fields, and providing a positive, welcoming environment for all students. We should also work toward better recruiting, training, paying, and retaining our teachers and supplemental school staff.
- Establish Virginia as an inclusive environment:
This election is our first big chance in Virginia to beat back Trump's brand of bullying. We need to confirm the Commonwealth as a welcoming place to live and raise a family.
This is why I'm fighting for 51 in the House of Delegates and to keep Democrats in our statewide seats. Imagine what we could achieve. This is what inspires me to knock on that last door at the top of the steep hill or make that last call to a potential voter at the end of a long day.
We're almost there. See you at the polls.
Best,
Rip
Volume XXI
Volume XXI
flip-a-district fridays:
volume XXI
Thank you.
Thank you for knocking on doors. Thank you for making calls. Thank you for reaching out to family and friends. Thank you for making contributions.
Thank you for voting.
On November 6th, the House Democratic Caucus had 34 members. It was barely enough to make sure we could sustain Governor McAuliffe's vetoes in the House, and it was woefully short of the number we needed to enact the progressive ideas that the majority of Virginians support.
Then Tuesday happened.
On Tuesday, Virginians elected an additional FIFTEEN Democrats to the House of Delegates -- with a few elections still in the recount stage -- which brings us to, at a minimum, 49 Democrats in the Virginia House of Delegates.
Our new members include the first transgender woman, first openly gay woman, first two Latinas, and first two Asian-American women ever to serve in the House. The House is finally starting to reflect the diversity of voices that make the Commonwealth great.
Tuesday was a political earthquake, and its significance was felt across the country.
Thank you for all that you did to make this happen. Now on to 2018...
Best,
Rip
Volume XXII
Volume XXII
flip-a-district fridays:
volume XXII
Welcome to Project Blue Dominion's 22nd edition of Flip-a-District Friday. This week we're giving you updates on the three House of Delegates races where results are still up in the air.
Regardless of the final number of Democrats in the House of Delegates, we are poised to shape the policy agenda in the General Assembly in a new and exciting way.
Below is a breakdown of where we stand in each of the three uncalled races in the 28th, 40th, and 94th Districts.
District 28
Joshua Cole (D) vs. Bob Thomas (R)
The 28th District was won by Donald Trump by 5 points, and has been held easily by retiring Republican Speaker of the House Bill Howell since 1992. Democrat Joshua Cole, who is facing Republican Bob Thomas, made history as the first African-American and the youngest candidate ever to win the Democratic nomination in the 28th District.
Currently, Cole trails Thomas by just 82 votes. There are two major issues, however, that could significantly shift the race's balance.
First, the Stafford County Registrar failed to count 55 absentee ballots that arrived at the Registrar's Office on Wednesday morning -- technically, absentee ballots must be received by 7 pm on Election Day to be counted. In response, we recently filed a federal lawsuit alleging that it was an error on the part of the USPS that prevented the ballots from arriving at the Registrar's Office on time, and thus, the ballots must be counted.
Second, we wrote a letter to election officials contending that over 600 Fredericksburg voters received the wrong ballots on Election Day. The 28th District includes "split precincts" that geographically fall into more than one House of Delegate district -- it appears that voters in split precincts accidentally received ballots for the adjacent 88th District, potentially costing Cole hundreds of votes -- and the win. We have asked the State Board of Elections to investigate and explain what happened.
District 40
Donte Tanner (D) vs. Tim Hugo (R)
Unseating an incumbent Delegate is much more difficult than competing in an open seat. Delegate Tim Hugo, when he has had an opponent, has never received less than 57.14 percent of the vote. However, Tanner was a phenomenal candidate who worked tirelessly to get his message out to the voters of the 40th District.
On Election Night, it looked like Tanner won the race against Hugo. Then, during a Wednesday review, 100 votes were found to have been erroneously given to Tanner -- this revelation flipped the race from Tanner being ahead by 68 votes to being behind by 32. As of today, Hugo is up by 106 votes.
District 94
Shelly Simonds (D) vs. David Yancey (R)
Simonds had a challenging race against an incumbent Republican Delegate. She had a particularly difficult path to victory given that she entered the race in August after the previous Democratic nominee suddenly withdrew.
Despite the abbreviated timeline, Simonds put together a phenomenal campaign and currently trails Yancey by a mere 10 votes.
The State Board of Elections has until this coming Monday to certify the results of November 7th's elections. After the certifications are issued, we plan to request recounts in each of these three districts.
The majority is still in play, and I'll be sure to keep you posted as we receive updates in the coming weeks.
Best,
Rip