Progressive Voters Guide

Senate District 027

State Senator

Democrat
Joel Griffin

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Virginia’s new 27th State Senate district encompasses parts of Stafford County, parts of Spotsylvania County, and Fredericksburg City. With over 155,000 registered voters, this is a competitive district that does not lean one way or another.

This election will be held on November 7, 2023. Democratic candidate Joel Griffin, Republican candidate Delegate Tara Durant, and Independent Monica Gary are facing each other in the general election for Virginia’s new 27th State Senate district. Delegate Durant has served in the House of Delegates since 2022. Gary previously held the Stafford County Supervisor Aquia district seat.

Democratic candidate Joel Griffin is a Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, restaurateur, and philanthropist. He grew up in Marshville, North Carolina, a rural town outside of Charlotte. He has 25 years of private industry consulting experience and 20 years of experience in government contracting. After graduating high school, Griffin joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Marine Corps Honor Guard and volunteered for the infantry. He and his wife of 25 years raised two daughters.

Griffin is a strong advocate for public schools and the opportunities education provides. He believes that public schools are integral to ending poverty, increasing opportunity, reducing crime, and strengthening communities. Griffin supports increasing student resources and paying teachers a fair wage. He stands against those who create barriers to accessing important resources for children, such as those who aim to control access to libraries. He believes that reinvesting in public schools is necessary to make sure that everyone, regardless of income, is able to get a good education.

Joel Griffin is a strong supporter of abortion access in the Commonwealth. He understands that if Republicans gain control, it is possible a full ban will go into effect. Griffin has expressed his hopes for enshrining the right to abortion access into the Virginia State Constitution. Griffin has listed this as a first priority and a possible bill he would introduce. He is endorsed by Roe Your Vote Virginia and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia.

Looking at his own experiences growing up in a household where childcare was unaffordable has shaped Griffin’s views on economic justice. If elected, Griffin will prioritize funding for childcare assistance programs. He believes in policies that help providers operate sustainably while keeping high standards of care. Griffin supports investments in early childhood education and the long-term benefits they provide to children and families. As an employer himself, he promotes paid family and medical leave.

Joel Griffin is facing Republican Delegate Tara Durant and Monica Gary in the District 27 race. Delegate Tara Durant has served in the House of Delegates since 2022. She is a former teacher. She has sponsored bills that would create barriers to voting and voted for bills that would disrupt access to abortion care. She also sponsored a bill that would allow crisis pregnancy centers to be listed as valid resources.

Monica Gary previously held the Stafford County Supervisor Aquia district seat. Gary grew up in a low-income family, facing financial difficulties, food insecurity, and housing insecurity. She became involved in her community following the death of George Floyd, attending county board meetings and organizing with activist and faith groups. She is currently working to complete her Masters of Divinity. She has made previous statements using anti-abortion rhetoric.

Due to his commitment to public schools, supporting abortion access, and prioritizing economic justice, Joel Griffin is the progressive choice in this race.

Democratic candidate Joel Griffin is a Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, restaurateur, and philanthropist. He grew up in Marshville, North Carolina, a rural town outside of Charlotte. He has 25 years of private industry consulting experience and 20 years of experience in government contracting. After graduating high school, Griffin joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Marine Corps Honor Guard and volunteered for the infantry. He and his wife of 25 years raised two daughters.

Griffin is a strong advocate for public schools and the opportunities education provides. He believes that public schools are integral to ending poverty, increasing opportunity, reducing crime, and strengthening communities. Griffin supports increasing student resources and paying teachers a fair wage. He stands against those who create barriers to accessing important resources for children, such as those who aim to control access to libraries. He believes that reinvesting in public schools is necessary to make sure that everyone, regardless of income, is able to get a good education.

Joel Griffin is a strong supporter of abortion access in the Commonwealth. He understands that if Republicans gain control, it is possible a full ban will go into effect. Griffin has expressed his hopes for enshrining the right to abortion access into the Virginia State Constitution. Griffin has listed this as a first priority and a possible bill he would introduce. He is endorsed by Roe Your Vote Virginia and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia.

Looking at his own experiences growing up in a household where childcare was unaffordable has shaped Griffin’s views on economic justice. If elected, Griffin will prioritize funding for childcare assistance programs. He believes in policies that help providers operate sustainably while keeping high standards of care. Griffin supports investments in early childhood education and the long-term benefits they provide to children and families. As an employer himself, he promotes paid family and medical leave.

Joel Griffin is facing Republican Delegate Tara Durant and Monica Gary in the District 27 race. Delegate Tara Durant has served in the House of Delegates since 2022. She is a former teacher. She has sponsored bills that would create barriers to voting and voted for bills that would disrupt access to abortion care. She also sponsored a bill that would allow crisis pregnancy centers to be listed as valid resources.

Monica Gary previously held the Stafford County Supervisor Aquia district seat. Gary grew up in a low-income family, facing financial difficulties, food insecurity, and housing insecurity. She became involved in her community following the death of George Floyd, attending county board meetings and organizing with activist and faith groups. She is currently working to complete her Masters of Divinity. She has made previous statements using anti-abortion rhetoric.

Due to his commitment to public schools, supporting abortion access, and prioritizing economic justice, Joel Griffin is the progressive choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-09-21

Democrat
Joel Griffin

Website Facebook Endorsements Instagram Twitter
Democratic candidate Joel Griffin is a Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, restaurateur, and philanthropist. He grew up in Marshville, North Carolina, a rural town outside of Charlotte. He has 25 years of private industry consulting experience and 20 years of experience in government contracting. After graduating high school, Griffin joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Marine Corps Honor Guard and volunteered for the infantry. He and his wife of 25 years raised two daughters.

Griffin is a strong advocate for public schools and the opportunities education provides. He believes that public schools are integral to ending poverty, increasing opportunity, reducing crime, and strengthening communities. Griffin supports increasing student resources and paying teachers a fair wage. He stands against those who create barriers to accessing important resources for children, such as those who aim to control access to libraries. He believes that reinvesting in public schools is necessary to make sure that everyone, regardless of income, is able to get a good education.

Joel Griffin is a strong supporter of abortion access in the Commonwealth. He understands that if Republicans gain control, it is possible a full ban will go into effect. Griffin has expressed his hopes for enshrining the right to abortion access into the Virginia State Constitution. Griffin has listed this as a first priority and a possible bill he would introduce. He is endorsed by Roe Your Vote Virginia and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia.

Looking at his own experiences growing up in a household where childcare was unaffordable has shaped Griffin’s views on economic justice. If elected, Griffin will prioritize funding for childcare assistance programs. He believes in policies that help providers operate sustainably while keeping high standards of care. Griffin supports investments in early childhood education and the long-term benefits they provide to children and families. As an employer himself, he promotes paid family and medical leave.

Joel Griffin is facing Republican Delegate Tara Durant and Monica Gary in the District 27 race. Delegate Tara Durant has served in the House of Delegates since 2022. She is a former teacher. She has sponsored bills that would create barriers to voting and voted for bills that would disrupt access to abortion care. She also sponsored a bill that would allow crisis pregnancy centers to be listed as valid resources.

Monica Gary previously held the Stafford County Supervisor Aquia district seat. Gary grew up in a low-income family, facing financial difficulties, food insecurity, and housing insecurity. She became involved in her community following the death of George Floyd, attending county board meetings and organizing with activist and faith groups. She is currently working to complete her Masters of Divinity. She has made previous statements using anti-abortion rhetoric.

Due to his commitment to public schools, supporting abortion access, and prioritizing economic justice, Joel Griffin is the progressive choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-09-21

House of Delegates

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below House of Delegate races on your ballot.

House District 063

Delegate

No Recommendation

Phillip Scott is a Republican who has served District 88 since 2022, and he is the sole candidate for this position. He voted to restrict privacy and participation in sports for trans children, and he does not support gun violence prevention legislation. He also voted against renters’ protection against short-notice raises of rent. Additionally, he has voted in support of limiting early voting and making it harder for people to cast their ballots. .

There is no progressive recommendation for this race. We encourage you to write-in a candidate. Remember there are other races to vote in on Election Day.

No Recommendation

House District 064

Delegate

Democrat
Leonard Lacey

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Dr. Leonard Lacey is a staunch supporter of education and boasts an extensive list of degrees from esteemed educational institutions across Virginia. He has genuine concerns about the shortage of teachers and the inadequate funding for our schools. He will increase funding for public schools and raise teacher pay. By focusing on improving our public schools for students and teachers, he believes society as a whole will benefit.

Drawing from his valuable experiences as a pastor, Leonard firmly believes that addressing these divisions necessitates the establishment of strong relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. He recognizes that trust can be rebuilt through improved communication, understanding, and empathy. In pursuit of this goal, Leonard emphasizes the importance of providing police officers with access to relevant training that enables them to navigate diverse cultural landscapes effectively. By promoting cultural awareness, he aims to foster an environment where law enforcement can better serve and protect all citizens equitably.
Through these efforts, Leonard Lacey endeavors to pave the way for a more unified and harmonious society, where the well-being and safety of every individual are upheld with dignity and respect.

Leonard Lacey upholds the belief that health and wellness are fundamental human rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. As Delegate, he will ensure that everyone in our community has access to the health care they need when they need it. Leonard Lacey's vision revolves around a future where no one is left behind, and where comprehensive healthcare is within reach for every individual, leading to a healthier and more thriving society for all.

Pastor Lacey deeply values and respects each member of our community and Commonwealth, upholding an unwavering commitment to impartiality and prudence in his judgments. He firmly believes that principles of fairness, equality, and equity should be extended to every single citizen. Understanding the profound effects that policy decisions can have, Leonard is determined to champion an inclusive approach that takes into account the diverse needs of individuals when making choices concerning programs, policies, and investments in Virginia. He recognizes the significance of carefully considering the far-reaching impacts and consequences of these decisions on every person's well-being and welfare. Through his dedicated advocacy for a just and equitable society, Pastor Lacey seeks to create a harmonious environment where the rights and interests of all individuals are protected and respected. By promoting fairness and inclusivity in governance, he aims to pave the way for a stronger, more united, and compassionate community and state for everyone.

Lacey’s opponent is Republican Paul Milde, the founder and chairman of savecrowsnest.com, a campaign to increase public awareness and knowledge of the importance of protecting the Crow’s Nest Peninsula. Paul also owns and operates his own business, CIP Finishes, located in Stafford County. Paul’s platform includes misinformation about the border crisis, as well as reproductive rights, and trans people. He is anti-abortion, and he supports defunding public schools in favor of unregulated private schools.

Lacey is the progressive choice for this race, as he supports equity and inclusion in several sectors, including healthcare and education.

Last updated: 2023-10-27

Leonard Lacey

Dr. Leonard Lacey is a staunch supporter of education and boasts an extensive list of degrees from esteemed educational institutions across Virginia. He has genuine concerns about the shortage of teachers and the inadequate funding for our schools.

Dr. Leonard Lacey is a staunch supporter of education and boasts an extensive list of degrees from esteemed educational institutions across Virginia. He has genuine concerns about the shortage of teachers and the inadequate funding for our schools. He will increase funding for public schools and raise teacher pay. By focusing on improving our public schools for students and teachers, he believes society as a whole will benefit.

Drawing from his valuable experiences as a pastor, Leonard firmly believes that addressing these divisions necessitates the establishment of strong relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. He recognizes that trust can be rebuilt through improved communication, understanding, and empathy. In pursuit of this goal, Leonard emphasizes the importance of providing police officers with access to relevant training that enables them to navigate diverse cultural landscapes effectively. By promoting cultural awareness, he aims to foster an environment where law enforcement can better serve and protect all citizens equitably.
Through these efforts, Leonard Lacey endeavors to pave the way for a more unified and harmonious society, where the well-being and safety of every individual are upheld with dignity and respect.

Leonard Lacey upholds the belief that health and wellness are fundamental human rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. As Delegate, he will ensure that everyone in our community has access to the health care they need when they need it. Leonard Lacey's vision revolves around a future where no one is left behind, and where comprehensive healthcare is within reach for every individual, leading to a healthier and more thriving society for all.

Pastor Lacey deeply values and respects each member of our community and Commonwealth, upholding an unwavering commitment to impartiality and prudence in his judgments. He firmly believes that principles of fairness, equality, and equity should be extended to every single citizen. Understanding the profound effects that policy decisions can have, Leonard is determined to champion an inclusive approach that takes into account the diverse needs of individuals when making choices concerning programs, policies, and investments in Virginia. He recognizes the significance of carefully considering the far-reaching impacts and consequences of these decisions on every person's well-being and welfare. Through his dedicated advocacy for a just and equitable society, Pastor Lacey seeks to create a harmonious environment where the rights and interests of all individuals are protected and respected. By promoting fairness and inclusivity in governance, he aims to pave the way for a stronger, more united, and compassionate community and state for everyone.

Lacey’s opponent is Republican Paul Milde, the founder and chairman of savecrowsnest.com, a campaign to increase public awareness and knowledge of the importance of protecting the Crow’s Nest Peninsula. Paul also owns and operates his own business, CIP Finishes, located in Stafford County. Paul’s platform includes misinformation about the border crisis, as well as reproductive rights, and trans people. He is anti-abortion, and he supports defunding public schools in favor of unregulated private schools.

Lacey is the progressive choice for this race, as he supports equity and inclusion in several sectors, including healthcare and education.

Leonard Lacey

Dr. Leonard Lacey is a staunch supporter of education and boasts an extensive list of degrees from esteemed educational institutions across Virginia. He has genuine concerns about the shortage of teachers and the inadequate funding for our schools.

Dr. Leonard Lacey is a staunch supporter of education and boasts an extensive list of degrees from esteemed educational institutions across Virginia. He has genuine concerns about the shortage of teachers and the inadequate funding for our schools. He will increase funding for public schools and raise teacher pay. By focusing on improving our public schools for students and teachers, he believes society as a whole will benefit.

Drawing from his valuable experiences as a pastor, Leonard firmly believes that addressing these divisions necessitates the establishment of strong relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. He recognizes that trust can be rebuilt through improved communication, understanding, and empathy. In pursuit of this goal, Leonard emphasizes the importance of providing police officers with access to relevant training that enables them to navigate diverse cultural landscapes effectively. By promoting cultural awareness, he aims to foster an environment where law enforcement can better serve and protect all citizens equitably.
Through these efforts, Leonard Lacey endeavors to pave the way for a more unified and harmonious society, where the well-being and safety of every individual are upheld with dignity and respect.

Leonard Lacey upholds the belief that health and wellness are fundamental human rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. As Delegate, he will ensure that everyone in our community has access to the health care they need when they need it. Leonard Lacey's vision revolves around a future where no one is left behind, and where comprehensive healthcare is within reach for every individual, leading to a healthier and more thriving society for all.

Pastor Lacey deeply values and respects each member of our community and Commonwealth, upholding an unwavering commitment to impartiality and prudence in his judgments. He firmly believes that principles of fairness, equality, and equity should be extended to every single citizen. Understanding the profound effects that policy decisions can have, Leonard is determined to champion an inclusive approach that takes into account the diverse needs of individuals when making choices concerning programs, policies, and investments in Virginia. He recognizes the significance of carefully considering the far-reaching impacts and consequences of these decisions on every person's well-being and welfare. Through his dedicated advocacy for a just and equitable society, Pastor Lacey seeks to create a harmonious environment where the rights and interests of all individuals are protected and respected. By promoting fairness and inclusivity in governance, he aims to pave the way for a stronger, more united, and compassionate community and state for everyone.

Lacey’s opponent is Republican Paul Milde, the founder and chairman of savecrowsnest.com, a campaign to increase public awareness and knowledge of the importance of protecting the Crow’s Nest Peninsula. Paul also owns and operates his own business, CIP Finishes, located in Stafford County. Paul’s platform includes misinformation about the border crisis, as well as reproductive rights, and trans people. He is anti-abortion, and he supports defunding public schools in favor of unregulated private schools.

Lacey is the progressive choice for this race, as he supports equity and inclusion in several sectors, including healthcare and education.

Last updated: 2023-10-27

Democrat
Leonard Lacey

Website Facebook Twitter
Dr. Leonard Lacey is a staunch supporter of education and boasts an extensive list of degrees from esteemed educational institutions across Virginia. He has genuine concerns about the shortage of teachers and the inadequate funding for our schools. He will increase funding for public schools and raise teacher pay. By focusing on improving our public schools for students and teachers, he believes society as a whole will benefit.

Drawing from his valuable experiences as a pastor, Leonard firmly believes that addressing these divisions necessitates the establishment of strong relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. He recognizes that trust can be rebuilt through improved communication, understanding, and empathy. In pursuit of this goal, Leonard emphasizes the importance of providing police officers with access to relevant training that enables them to navigate diverse cultural landscapes effectively. By promoting cultural awareness, he aims to foster an environment where law enforcement can better serve and protect all citizens equitably.
Through these efforts, Leonard Lacey endeavors to pave the way for a more unified and harmonious society, where the well-being and safety of every individual are upheld with dignity and respect.

Leonard Lacey upholds the belief that health and wellness are fundamental human rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. As Delegate, he will ensure that everyone in our community has access to the health care they need when they need it. Leonard Lacey's vision revolves around a future where no one is left behind, and where comprehensive healthcare is within reach for every individual, leading to a healthier and more thriving society for all.

Pastor Lacey deeply values and respects each member of our community and Commonwealth, upholding an unwavering commitment to impartiality and prudence in his judgments. He firmly believes that principles of fairness, equality, and equity should be extended to every single citizen. Understanding the profound effects that policy decisions can have, Leonard is determined to champion an inclusive approach that takes into account the diverse needs of individuals when making choices concerning programs, policies, and investments in Virginia. He recognizes the significance of carefully considering the far-reaching impacts and consequences of these decisions on every person's well-being and welfare. Through his dedicated advocacy for a just and equitable society, Pastor Lacey seeks to create a harmonious environment where the rights and interests of all individuals are protected and respected. By promoting fairness and inclusivity in governance, he aims to pave the way for a stronger, more united, and compassionate community and state for everyone.

Lacey’s opponent is Republican Paul Milde, the founder and chairman of savecrowsnest.com, a campaign to increase public awareness and knowledge of the importance of protecting the Crow’s Nest Peninsula. Paul also owns and operates his own business, CIP Finishes, located in Stafford County. Paul’s platform includes misinformation about the border crisis, as well as reproductive rights, and trans people. He is anti-abortion, and he supports defunding public schools in favor of unregulated private schools.

Lacey is the progressive choice for this race, as he supports equity and inclusion in several sectors, including healthcare and education.

Last updated: 2023-10-27

House District 065

Delegate

Democrat
Joshua Cole

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Virginia’s new 65th House of Delegates district encompasses parts of Stafford County, Fredericksburg City, and parts of Spotsylvania County. With over 62,000 registered voters, this is a competitive district.

This election will be held on November 7, 2023. Democratic candidate Joshua Cole and Republican candidate Lee Peters are facing each other in the general election for Virginia’s new 65th House of Delegates district. Cole won the 2019 28th District House of Delegates general election.

Former Delegate Joshua Cole was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 2019-2021, losing his district by less than a 1,000 votes in a difficult off-year election. He is a pastor, former President of the Stafford County NAACP, and works with numerous other local and community initiatives. In his first term, he voted to cap out-of-pocket health care costs on prescription drugs for people with pre-existing conditions, raise the minimum wage, expand voting rights and make community college tuition free. He also took the lead on historic legislation, including renaming Jefferson Davis Highway to Emancipation Highway and bringing automatic voter registration to Virginia. He is running for HD-65 to return to the General Assembly and continue his work on behalf of Fredericksburg area families.

During his previous term, Former Delegate Cole fought to make his district a more just, affordable, and environmentally friendly place to live. He voted to pass the Equal Rights Amendment and protect a person’s right to decide when and whether to become a parent, including expanding healthcare coverage to include abortions. He pushed to prohibit landlords from running negative credit checks during the pandemic.

Fmr. Del. Cole has fought for all working people in Virginia, no matter their income. He voted to raise the minimum wage and make community college tuition-free. He also advocated for increasing the number of affordable housing units in the district while working to address the rising cost of living and rent. He plans to establish rent controls, create a Virginia Housing Tax Credit, increase funding for the Virginia Housing Trust Fund, and promote inclusionary zoning to ensure there are sufficient housing units in the district.

Fmr. Del. Cole supported the expansion of Medicaid and hopes to repeal Medicaid work requirements. He also supports Medicare For All. He supports keeping the price of prescriptions down and voted to cap insulin co-payments. Fmr. Del. Cole advocated for banning the practice of “balanced billing,” also known as surprise billing, where patients are charged with surprise fees. He also plans to work on improving the district’s medical and mental health support for veterans.

Fmr. Del. Cole has also advocated for critical environmental policies by fighting to preserve the district’s natural resources and environment. He co-sponsored the Virginia Green New Deal Act, which would establish a moratorium on fossil fuel projects and incentivize investment in clean energy. He recognizes that renewable energy is both environmentally and economically beneficial by creating new jobs. He also supported legislation that would set strict regulations on polluters and raise the standards for clean air and water.

Fmr. Del. Cole is facing Lee Peters III in the general election, a lifelong cop endorsed by Governor Youngkin, Attorney General Miyares, and other heinous right-wingers. Predictably, “law and order” is a top priority–he supports Youngkin’s initiatives to ensure police remain forever unaccountable. He wants to further undermine public schools and the safety of children in them. He sees necessary safety regulations as red tape and pledges to eliminate oversight.

Due to his support of affordable healthcare, the environment, affordable housing, and working families, Fmr. Del. Joshua Cole is the most progressive choice for Virginia’s 65th District.

Former Delegate Joshua Cole was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 2019-2021, losing his district by less than a 1,000 votes in a difficult off-year election. He is a pastor, former President of the Stafford County NAACP, and works with numerous other local and community initiatives. In his first term, he voted to cap out-of-pocket health care costs on prescription drugs for people with pre-existing conditions, raise the minimum wage, expand voting rights and make community college tuition free. He also took the lead on historic legislation, including renaming Jefferson Davis Highway to Emancipation Highway and bringing automatic voter registration to Virginia. He is running for HD-65 to return to the General Assembly and continue his work on behalf of Fredericksburg area families.

During his previous term, Former Delegate Cole fought to make his district a more just, affordable, and environmentally friendly place to live. He voted to pass the Equal Rights Amendment and protect a person’s right to decide when and whether to become a parent, including expanding healthcare coverage to include abortions. He pushed to prohibit landlords from running negative credit checks during the pandemic.

Fmr. Del. Cole has fought for all working people in Virginia, no matter their income. He voted to raise the minimum wage and make community college tuition-free. He also advocated for increasing the number of affordable housing units in the district while working to address the rising cost of living and rent. He plans to establish rent controls, create a Virginia Housing Tax Credit, increase funding for the Virginia Housing Trust Fund, and promote inclusionary zoning to ensure there are sufficient housing units in the district.

Fmr. Del. Cole supported the expansion of Medicaid and hopes to repeal Medicaid work requirements. He also supports Medicare For All. He supports keeping the price of prescriptions down and voted to cap insulin co-payments. Fmr. Del. Cole advocated for banning the practice of “balanced billing,” also known as surprise billing, where patients are charged with surprise fees. He also plans to work on improving the district’s medical and mental health support for veterans.

Fmr. Del. Cole has also advocated for critical environmental policies by fighting to preserve the district’s natural resources and environment. He co-sponsored the Virginia Green New Deal Act, which would establish a moratorium on fossil fuel projects and incentivize investment in clean energy. He recognizes that renewable energy is both environmentally and economically beneficial by creating new jobs. He also supported legislation that would set strict regulations on polluters and raise the standards for clean air and water.

Fmr. Del. Cole is facing Lee Peters III in the general election, a lifelong cop endorsed by Governor Youngkin, Attorney General Miyares, and other heinous right-wingers. Predictably, “law and order” is a top priority–he supports Youngkin’s initiatives to ensure police remain forever unaccountable. He wants to further undermine public schools and the safety of children in them. He sees necessary safety regulations as red tape and pledges to eliminate oversight.

Due to his support of affordable healthcare, the environment, affordable housing, and working families, Fmr. Del. Joshua Cole is the most progressive choice for Virginia’s 65th District.

Last updated: 2023-09-21

Democrat
Joshua Cole

Website Facebook Instagram Twitter
Former Delegate Joshua Cole was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 2019-2021, losing his district by less than a 1,000 votes in a difficult off-year election. He is a pastor, former President of the Stafford County NAACP, and works with numerous other local and community initiatives. In his first term, he voted to cap out-of-pocket health care costs on prescription drugs for people with pre-existing conditions, raise the minimum wage, expand voting rights and make community college tuition free. He also took the lead on historic legislation, including renaming Jefferson Davis Highway to Emancipation Highway and bringing automatic voter registration to Virginia. He is running for HD-65 to return to the General Assembly and continue his work on behalf of Fredericksburg area families.

During his previous term, Former Delegate Cole fought to make his district a more just, affordable, and environmentally friendly place to live. He voted to pass the Equal Rights Amendment and protect a person’s right to decide when and whether to become a parent, including expanding healthcare coverage to include abortions. He pushed to prohibit landlords from running negative credit checks during the pandemic.

Fmr. Del. Cole has fought for all working people in Virginia, no matter their income. He voted to raise the minimum wage and make community college tuition-free. He also advocated for increasing the number of affordable housing units in the district while working to address the rising cost of living and rent. He plans to establish rent controls, create a Virginia Housing Tax Credit, increase funding for the Virginia Housing Trust Fund, and promote inclusionary zoning to ensure there are sufficient housing units in the district.

Fmr. Del. Cole supported the expansion of Medicaid and hopes to repeal Medicaid work requirements. He also supports Medicare For All. He supports keeping the price of prescriptions down and voted to cap insulin co-payments. Fmr. Del. Cole advocated for banning the practice of “balanced billing,” also known as surprise billing, where patients are charged with surprise fees. He also plans to work on improving the district’s medical and mental health support for veterans.

Fmr. Del. Cole has also advocated for critical environmental policies by fighting to preserve the district’s natural resources and environment. He co-sponsored the Virginia Green New Deal Act, which would establish a moratorium on fossil fuel projects and incentivize investment in clean energy. He recognizes that renewable energy is both environmentally and economically beneficial by creating new jobs. He also supported legislation that would set strict regulations on polluters and raise the standards for clean air and water.

Fmr. Del. Cole is facing Lee Peters III in the general election, a lifelong cop endorsed by Governor Youngkin, Attorney General Miyares, and other heinous right-wingers. Predictably, “law and order” is a top priority–he supports Youngkin’s initiatives to ensure police remain forever unaccountable. He wants to further undermine public schools and the safety of children in them. He sees necessary safety regulations as red tape and pledges to eliminate oversight.

Due to his support of affordable healthcare, the environment, affordable housing, and working families, Fmr. Del. Joshua Cole is the most progressive choice for Virginia’s 65th District.

Last updated: 2023-09-21

House District 066

Delegate

Democrat
Mark Lux

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Virginia’s new 66th House of Delegates district encompasses parts of Spotsylvania County and parts of Caroline County. With almost 64,000 registered voters, this district leans Republican.

This election will be held on November 7, 2023. Incumbent Republican Delegate Bobby Orrock is facing a challenge from Democratic candidate Mark Lux in the general election for Virginia’s new 66th House of Delegates district. Delegate Orrock has served in the House of Delegates since 1990.

Democrat Mark Lux is a Special Education teacher in Prince William County for children with Autism. After graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant, Lux attended Columbia University and earned a Master's in International Affairs. He then served with the Army's 82nd Airborne Division and later became the Company Commander for a Military Police Reserve unit on Long Island. After leaving the Army, Lux worked in several managerial positions before earning a Master's in Special Education from Ohio University.

Lux will be a vote for healthcare across the board. He pledges to support abortion access without government interference and supports policies that ensure people have control over their own healthcare decisions. Additionally, Lux supports increased funding for mental health services, which he believes will help support schools and ensure that those who need help will get it.

Lux promises to push for transparency and a culture of respect. He says that, as a non-politician, a Veteran, and a Special Education Teacher, he is committed to putting people over politics and to working towards common-sense solutions that benefit everyone. He is committed to promoting a culture where individuals can live and learn without fear of violence or discrimination. He strongly denounces political extremism and election deniers and is committed to upholding the integrity of our democratic process.

As a special education teacher, Lux understands the importance of proper funding for public education. He argues that we need to commit to increased funding and support for public education and teacher training and recognizes the critical role that education plays in shaping the future of our society. He believes that we must invest in our schools and teachers to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

As a veteran, Lux is intimately familiar with the challenges facing both active and retired military. He wants to ensure they get the support and resources they need and denounces dictatorial aggression at home and abroad.

Incumbent Republican Delegate Bobby Orrock is a far-right conservative elected to the House of Delegates in 1990. Orrock does not support access to abortion and voted against the Equal Rights Amendment. He was a staunch opponent of Medicaid expansion in Virginia. Additionally, he voted against raising the minimum wage, the Voting Rights Act of Virginia, and ending the death penalty.

Given his positions on healthcare, public education funding, and government transparency, Lux is the progressive choice in this race.

Democrat Mark Lux is a Special Education teacher in Prince William County for children with Autism. After graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant, Lux attended Columbia University and earned a Master's in International Affairs. He then served with the Army's 82nd Airborne Division and later became the Company Commander for a Military Police Reserve unit on Long Island. After leaving the Army, Lux worked in several managerial positions before earning a Master's in Special Education from Ohio University.

Lux will be a vote for healthcare across the board. He pledges to support abortion access without government interference and supports policies that ensure people have control over their own healthcare decisions. Additionally, Lux supports increased funding for mental health services, which he believes will help support schools and ensure that those who need help will get it.

Lux promises to push for transparency and a culture of respect. He says that, as a non-politician, a Veteran, and a Special Education Teacher, he is committed to putting people over politics and to working towards common-sense solutions that benefit everyone. He is committed to promoting a culture where individuals can live and learn without fear of violence or discrimination. He strongly denounces political extremism and election deniers and is committed to upholding the integrity of our democratic process.

As a special education teacher, Lux understands the importance of proper funding for public education. He argues that we need to commit to increased funding and support for public education and teacher training and recognizes the critical role that education plays in shaping the future of our society. He believes that we must invest in our schools and teachers to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

As a veteran, Lux is intimately familiar with the challenges facing both active and retired military. He wants to ensure they get the support and resources they need and denounces dictatorial aggression at home and abroad.

Incumbent Republican Delegate Bobby Orrock is a far-right conservative elected to the House of Delegates in 1990. Orrock does not support access to abortion and voted against the Equal Rights Amendment. He was a staunch opponent of Medicaid expansion in Virginia. Additionally, he voted against raising the minimum wage, the Voting Rights Act of Virginia, and ending the death penalty.

Given his positions on healthcare, public education funding, and government transparency, Lux is the progressive choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-10-06

Democrat
Mark Lux

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Democrat Mark Lux is a Special Education teacher in Prince William County for children with Autism. After graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant, Lux attended Columbia University and earned a Master's in International Affairs. He then served with the Army's 82nd Airborne Division and later became the Company Commander for a Military Police Reserve unit on Long Island. After leaving the Army, Lux worked in several managerial positions before earning a Master's in Special Education from Ohio University.

Lux will be a vote for healthcare across the board. He pledges to support abortion access without government interference and supports policies that ensure people have control over their own healthcare decisions. Additionally, Lux supports increased funding for mental health services, which he believes will help support schools and ensure that those who need help will get it.

Lux promises to push for transparency and a culture of respect. He says that, as a non-politician, a Veteran, and a Special Education Teacher, he is committed to putting people over politics and to working towards common-sense solutions that benefit everyone. He is committed to promoting a culture where individuals can live and learn without fear of violence or discrimination. He strongly denounces political extremism and election deniers and is committed to upholding the integrity of our democratic process.

As a special education teacher, Lux understands the importance of proper funding for public education. He argues that we need to commit to increased funding and support for public education and teacher training and recognizes the critical role that education plays in shaping the future of our society. He believes that we must invest in our schools and teachers to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

As a veteran, Lux is intimately familiar with the challenges facing both active and retired military. He wants to ensure they get the support and resources they need and denounces dictatorial aggression at home and abroad.

Incumbent Republican Delegate Bobby Orrock is a far-right conservative elected to the House of Delegates in 1990. Orrock does not support access to abortion and voted against the Equal Rights Amendment. He was a staunch opponent of Medicaid expansion in Virginia. Additionally, he voted against raising the minimum wage, the Voting Rights Act of Virginia, and ending the death penalty.

Given his positions on healthcare, public education funding, and government transparency, Lux is the progressive choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-10-06

House District 067

Delegate

Democrat
John Quincy

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John Quincy Smith currently lives in King George County and was raised in a working-class family in Ohio. Following military service that included a deployment to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict, the GI Bill helped him to earn a Ph.D. in history from Ohio State. He continued to serve as a Department of Defense civilian with the U.S. Air Force as a historian with assignments in Europe, Asia, and the U.S. and deployments to Southwest Asia. After retiring from the role of Air Force Senior Historian, he and his wife, Grace, moved to King George County, where Grace works as a special education teacher at King George Elementary School.

Smith wants to build a robust regional economy for everyone, with controlled development to protect the environmental integrity of the Northern Neck region. This stance earned him an endorsement from the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC)..

He also supports commonsense gun legislation. His policy positions earned him the 2023 Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction. He wants to defend voting rights, and supports increased funding to build quality public education. His desire to protect reproductive rights and access to abortion earned him an endorsement from Roe Your Vote Virginia and from the Committee to Protect Healthcare.

Smith’s opponent in this race is Republican Hillary Pugh Kent, a conservative businesswoman. She’d rather blindly increase funding for law enforcement than do anything to hold them accountable. She’s a COVID-19 conspiracy theorist who believes the pandemic was overblown because we handed the government the reins. Independent Richard Kenski is also in this race, but at the time of research we could find no information on him.

Because of his support for building strong healthcare that supports abortion access, his push to protect the environment, and his commonsense gun control positions, John Quincy Smith is the progressive choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-10-23

John Quincy

John Quincy Smith currently lives in King George County and was raised in a working-class family in Ohio. Following military service that included a deployment to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict, the GI Bill helped him to earn a Ph.D. in history from Ohio State.

John Quincy Smith currently lives in King George County and was raised in a working-class family in Ohio. Following military service that included a deployment to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict, the GI Bill helped him to earn a Ph.D. in history from Ohio State. He continued to serve as a Department of Defense civilian with the U.S. Air Force as a historian with assignments in Europe, Asia, and the U.S. and deployments to Southwest Asia. After retiring from the role of Air Force Senior Historian, he and his wife, Grace, moved to King George County, where Grace works as a special education teacher at King George Elementary School.

Smith wants to build a robust regional economy for everyone, with controlled development to protect the environmental integrity of the Northern Neck region. This stance earned him an endorsement from the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC)..

He also supports commonsense gun legislation. His policy positions earned him the 2023 Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction. He wants to defend voting rights, and supports increased funding to build quality public education. His desire to protect reproductive rights and access to abortion earned him an endorsement from Roe Your Vote Virginia and from the Committee to Protect Healthcare.

Smith’s opponent in this race is Republican Hillary Pugh Kent, a conservative businesswoman. She’d rather blindly increase funding for law enforcement than do anything to hold them accountable. She’s a COVID-19 conspiracy theorist who believes the pandemic was overblown because we handed the government the reins. Independent Richard Kenski is also in this race, but at the time of research we could find no information on him.

Because of his support for building strong healthcare that supports abortion access, his push to protect the environment, and his commonsense gun control positions, John Quincy Smith is the progressive choice in this race.

John Quincy

John Quincy Smith currently lives in King George County and was raised in a working-class family in Ohio. Following military service that included a deployment to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict, the GI Bill helped him to earn a Ph.D. in history from Ohio State.

Democrat
John Quincy

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
John Quincy Smith currently lives in King George County and was raised in a working-class family in Ohio. Following military service that included a deployment to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict, the GI Bill helped him to earn a Ph.D. in history from Ohio State. He continued to serve as a Department of Defense civilian with the U.S. Air Force as a historian with assignments in Europe, Asia, and the U.S. and deployments to Southwest Asia. After retiring from the role of Air Force Senior Historian, he and his wife, Grace, moved to King George County, where Grace works as a special education teacher at King George Elementary School.

Smith wants to build a robust regional economy for everyone, with controlled development to protect the environmental integrity of the Northern Neck region. This stance earned him an endorsement from the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC)..

He also supports commonsense gun legislation. His policy positions earned him the 2023 Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction. He wants to defend voting rights, and supports increased funding to build quality public education. His desire to protect reproductive rights and access to abortion earned him an endorsement from Roe Your Vote Virginia and from the Committee to Protect Healthcare.

Smith’s opponent in this race is Republican Hillary Pugh Kent, a conservative businesswoman. She’d rather blindly increase funding for law enforcement than do anything to hold them accountable. She’s a COVID-19 conspiracy theorist who believes the pandemic was overblown because we handed the government the reins. Independent Richard Kenski is also in this race, but at the time of research we could find no information on him.

Because of his support for building strong healthcare that supports abortion access, his push to protect the environment, and his commonsense gun control positions, John Quincy Smith is the progressive choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-10-23

Joel Griffin

House of Delegates

No Recommendation

Leonard Lacey

Joshua Cole

Mark Lux

John Quincy

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