Spotsylvania County
Not in Spotsylvania County? Find your state's guide.
Ballot Drop Boxes
Election Day is Tuesday, November 7th
The Virginia Progressive Voters Guide compiles the information that allows you to make informed decisions about the races on your ballot, based on your values. All research in this guide was conducted July through September of 2023. Please share this guide with your friends and family.
State Senate
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State Senate races on your ballot.
Senate District 025
Jolicia Ward is an accomplished activist, advocate, and healthcare professional. She is a former candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates in District 99. Ward is passionate about supporting working families and small and local business owners. She has a bachelor's degree in mass communication from The University of Virginia, College at Wise, and a master's degree in Entrepreneurial Management from Stratford University. She is affiliated with the Democratic Committee, the American Red Cross, and the United States Service Organization.
Ward believes that public education is the cornerstone of children's development. She is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities for all Virginians by fully funding public education, prioritizing teacher support and fair compensation, universal access to pre-K programs and affordable childcare services, affordable and enriching after-school programs, and regular meetings and events that bring together schools, parents, and community members to discuss educational priorities, and fostering community engagement. Ward believes that education needs to aim to do more than prepare young people to contribute to and benefit from an inclusive and sustainable future.
As a healthcare professional, Ward believes that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right and is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of where they live, have access to excellent healthcare. She will focus on removing barriers, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, promoting telehealth services, and making healthcare more affordable and comprehensive. Ward proposes investing in the development and improvement of healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, promoting telehealth services, increasing affordability, strengthening mental health services, and investing in the development and training of healthcare professionals.
Ward believes in the importance of personal choice when it comes to reproductive healthcare decisions. She advocates for policies that protect and uphold these personal choices, including the right to access safe and legal abortion services without unnecessary restrictions.
Ward believes that affordable and sustainable energy is essential for the well-being and economic prosperity of the community. She is committed to lowering energy costs for consumers in Virginia and challenging the dominance of large energy corporations. Her plan revolves around encouraging renewable energy sources, creating a more diverse energy market, and protecting the environment. She proposes supporting and incentivizing the development of renewable energy infrastructure, enhancing regulatory oversight of the energy sector, empowering communities to develop their energy projects, and creating a more affordable and sustainable energy market that benefits consumers and contributes to economic prosperity.
Jolicia Ward is facing incumbent Republican Senator Richard Stuart. Senator Stuart has served in the State Senate since 2009. He has consistently voted for bills aimed at creating barriers to abortion access. He has also consistently voted against commonsense gun violence prevention laws. Additionally, he voted against a bill to create transgender-friendly student policies.
Because of her commitment to progressive policies and values, Jolicia Ward is the progressive choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-23
Jolicia Ward is an accomplished activist, advocate, and healthcare professional. She is a former candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates in District 99. Ward is passionate about supporting working families and small and local business owners. She has a bachelor's degree in mass communication from The University of Virginia, College at Wise, and a master's degree in Entrepreneurial Management from Stratford University. She is affiliated with the Democratic Committee, the American Red Cross, and the United States Service Organization.
Ward believes that public education is the cornerstone of children's development. She is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities for all Virginians by fully funding public education, prioritizing teacher support and fair compensation, universal access to pre-K programs and affordable childcare services, affordable and enriching after-school programs, and regular meetings and events that bring together schools, parents, and community members to discuss educational priorities, and fostering community engagement. Ward believes that education needs to aim to do more than prepare young people to contribute to and benefit from an inclusive and sustainable future.
As a healthcare professional, Ward believes that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right and is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of where they live, have access to excellent healthcare. She will focus on removing barriers, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, promoting telehealth services, and making healthcare more affordable and comprehensive. Ward proposes investing in the development and improvement of healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, promoting telehealth services, increasing affordability, strengthening mental health services, and investing in the development and training of healthcare professionals.
Ward believes in the importance of personal choice when it comes to reproductive healthcare decisions. She advocates for policies that protect and uphold these personal choices, including the right to access safe and legal abortion services without unnecessary restrictions.
Ward believes that affordable and sustainable energy is essential for the well-being and economic prosperity of the community. She is committed to lowering energy costs for consumers in Virginia and challenging the dominance of large energy corporations. Her plan revolves around encouraging renewable energy sources, creating a more diverse energy market, and protecting the environment. She proposes supporting and incentivizing the development of renewable energy infrastructure, enhancing regulatory oversight of the energy sector, empowering communities to develop their energy projects, and creating a more affordable and sustainable energy market that benefits consumers and contributes to economic prosperity.
Jolicia Ward is facing incumbent Republican Senator Richard Stuart. Senator Stuart has served in the State Senate since 2009. He has consistently voted for bills aimed at creating barriers to abortion access. He has also consistently voted against commonsense gun violence prevention laws. Additionally, he voted against a bill to create transgender-friendly student policies.
Because of her commitment to progressive policies and values, Jolicia Ward is the progressive choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-23
Jolicia Ward is an accomplished activist, advocate, and healthcare professional. She is a former candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates in District 99. Ward is passionate about supporting working families and small and local business owners. She has a bachelor's degree in mass communication from The University of Virginia, College at Wise, and a master's degree in Entrepreneurial Management from Stratford University. She is affiliated with the Democratic Committee, the American Red Cross, and the United States Service Organization.
Ward believes that public education is the cornerstone of children's development. She is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities for all Virginians by fully funding public education, prioritizing teacher support and fair compensation, universal access to pre-K programs and affordable childcare services, affordable and enriching after-school programs, and regular meetings and events that bring together schools, parents, and community members to discuss educational priorities, and fostering community engagement. Ward believes that education needs to aim to do more than prepare young people to contribute to and benefit from an inclusive and sustainable future.
As a healthcare professional, Ward believes that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right and is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of where they live, have access to excellent healthcare. She will focus on removing barriers, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, promoting telehealth services, and making healthcare more affordable and comprehensive. Ward proposes investing in the development and improvement of healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, promoting telehealth services, increasing affordability, strengthening mental health services, and investing in the development and training of healthcare professionals.
Ward believes in the importance of personal choice when it comes to reproductive healthcare decisions. She advocates for policies that protect and uphold these personal choices, including the right to access safe and legal abortion services without unnecessary restrictions.
Ward believes that affordable and sustainable energy is essential for the well-being and economic prosperity of the community. She is committed to lowering energy costs for consumers in Virginia and challenging the dominance of large energy corporations. Her plan revolves around encouraging renewable energy sources, creating a more diverse energy market, and protecting the environment. She proposes supporting and incentivizing the development of renewable energy infrastructure, enhancing regulatory oversight of the energy sector, empowering communities to develop their energy projects, and creating a more affordable and sustainable energy market that benefits consumers and contributes to economic prosperity.
Jolicia Ward is facing incumbent Republican Senator Richard Stuart. Senator Stuart has served in the State Senate since 2009. He has consistently voted for bills aimed at creating barriers to abortion access. He has also consistently voted against commonsense gun violence prevention laws. Additionally, he voted against a bill to create transgender-friendly student policies.
Because of her commitment to progressive policies and values, Jolicia Ward is the progressive choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-23
Senate District 027
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.
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
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.
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
Senate District 028
Jason Ford is a Center Manager at Rappahannock Goodwill, helping locals find access to training, education, and employment. He graduated from the University of Mary Washington in 2020 with a degree in Political Science. Jason has a passion for helping others and has found fulfillment in seeing others succeed and grow.
Ford supports abortion access and believes everyone should be able to make their own healthcare decisions without government intervention. He recognizes that most Virginians support safe and legal abortion care. Regardless of the reasons, he supports Virginians and their right to access safe medical care and to make their own decisions. He supports expanding reproductive healthcare and family planning services. This includes access to contraception, affordable childcare, affordable housing, and a living wage.
Ford is in favor of common sense gun legislation. He recognizes gun violence prevention is top of mind for Virginians. He supports the use of extreme risk protection orders, noting they are proven to save lives. Ford also mentions the need to regulate “ghost guns.”
Increasing access to mental health resources is one of Ford’s key priorities. He advocates for bringing more mental health professionals into schools and communities, increasing training opportunities and prevention activities, improving and expanding local psychiatric units and hospitals, and providing better mental health resources to individuals in the correctional system. He also supports building partnerships between schools, service providers, and social service agencies.
Ford values public education and focuses on teacher pay as a major issue to tackle. He wants to work toward teachers and aides being paid above the national average, community partnerships for vocational training, internships, and apprenticeships, and enhancing school infrastructure. He advocates for facility and technology improvements, as well as policies that provide equitable opportunities so students are equipped with everything they need to thrive.
Challenging Incumbent Republican Senator Bryce Reeves are Democrat Jason Ford and Independent Elizabeth Melson. Senator Bryce Reeves has served in the State Senate since 2012. He is anti-abortion, stands against common sense gun laws, and voted against requiring schools to create transgender-friendly student policies. He also voted against repealing the same-sex marriage ban from Virginia’s State Constitution.
Independent candidate Elizabeth Melson is a farm and farmers market manager and yoga instructor. She offers trauma-informed programming to residents at RSW Regional Jail. She has experience in grassroots organizing for many topics including rights restoration and sentencing reform. Melson’s campaign site mentions defending the Second Amendment, requiring voter identification or verification, and funding public education while supporting families who choose private or homeschooling.
Due to his support for abortion access, common sense gun laws, and public education, Jason Ford is the most progressive candidate in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-27
Jason Ford is a Center Manager at Rappahannock Goodwill, helping locals find access to training, education, and employment. He graduated from the University of Mary Washington in 2020 with a degree in Political Science. Jason has a passion for helping others and has found fulfillment in seeing others succeed and grow.
Ford supports abortion access and believes everyone should be able to make their own healthcare decisions without government intervention. He recognizes that most Virginians support safe and legal abortion care. Regardless of the reasons, he supports Virginians and their right to access safe medical care and to make their own decisions. He supports expanding reproductive healthcare and family planning services. This includes access to contraception, affordable childcare, affordable housing, and a living wage.
Ford is in favor of common sense gun legislation. He recognizes gun violence prevention is top of mind for Virginians. He supports the use of extreme risk protection orders, noting they are proven to save lives. Ford also mentions the need to regulate “ghost guns.”
Increasing access to mental health resources is one of Ford’s key priorities. He advocates for bringing more mental health professionals into schools and communities, increasing training opportunities and prevention activities, improving and expanding local psychiatric units and hospitals, and providing better mental health resources to individuals in the correctional system. He also supports building partnerships between schools, service providers, and social service agencies.
Ford values public education and focuses on teacher pay as a major issue to tackle. He wants to work toward teachers and aides being paid above the national average, community partnerships for vocational training, internships, and apprenticeships, and enhancing school infrastructure. He advocates for facility and technology improvements, as well as policies that provide equitable opportunities so students are equipped with everything they need to thrive.
Challenging Incumbent Republican Senator Bryce Reeves are Democrat Jason Ford and Independent Elizabeth Melson. Senator Bryce Reeves has served in the State Senate since 2012. He is anti-abortion, stands against common sense gun laws, and voted against requiring schools to create transgender-friendly student policies. He also voted against repealing the same-sex marriage ban from Virginia’s State Constitution.
Independent candidate Elizabeth Melson is a farm and farmers market manager and yoga instructor. She offers trauma-informed programming to residents at RSW Regional Jail. She has experience in grassroots organizing for many topics including rights restoration and sentencing reform. Melson’s campaign site mentions defending the Second Amendment, requiring voter identification or verification, and funding public education while supporting families who choose private or homeschooling.
Due to his support for abortion access, common sense gun laws, and public education, Jason Ford is the most progressive candidate in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-27
Jason Ford is a Center Manager at Rappahannock Goodwill, helping locals find access to training, education, and employment. He graduated from the University of Mary Washington in 2020 with a degree in Political Science. Jason has a passion for helping others and has found fulfillment in seeing others succeed and grow.
Ford supports abortion access and believes everyone should be able to make their own healthcare decisions without government intervention. He recognizes that most Virginians support safe and legal abortion care. Regardless of the reasons, he supports Virginians and their right to access safe medical care and to make their own decisions. He supports expanding reproductive healthcare and family planning services. This includes access to contraception, affordable childcare, affordable housing, and a living wage.
Ford is in favor of common sense gun legislation. He recognizes gun violence prevention is top of mind for Virginians. He supports the use of extreme risk protection orders, noting they are proven to save lives. Ford also mentions the need to regulate “ghost guns.”
Increasing access to mental health resources is one of Ford’s key priorities. He advocates for bringing more mental health professionals into schools and communities, increasing training opportunities and prevention activities, improving and expanding local psychiatric units and hospitals, and providing better mental health resources to individuals in the correctional system. He also supports building partnerships between schools, service providers, and social service agencies.
Ford values public education and focuses on teacher pay as a major issue to tackle. He wants to work toward teachers and aides being paid above the national average, community partnerships for vocational training, internships, and apprenticeships, and enhancing school infrastructure. He advocates for facility and technology improvements, as well as policies that provide equitable opportunities so students are equipped with everything they need to thrive.
Challenging Incumbent Republican Senator Bryce Reeves are Democrat Jason Ford and Independent Elizabeth Melson. Senator Bryce Reeves has served in the State Senate since 2012. He is anti-abortion, stands against common sense gun laws, and voted against requiring schools to create transgender-friendly student policies. He also voted against repealing the same-sex marriage ban from Virginia’s State Constitution.
Independent candidate Elizabeth Melson is a farm and farmers market manager and yoga instructor. She offers trauma-informed programming to residents at RSW Regional Jail. She has experience in grassroots organizing for many topics including rights restoration and sentencing reform. Melson’s campaign site mentions defending the Second Amendment, requiring voter identification or verification, and funding public education while supporting families who choose private or homeschooling.
Due to his support for abortion access, common sense gun laws, and public education, Jason Ford is the most progressive candidate in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-27
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
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.
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.
House District 065
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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