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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

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 064

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Election Day November 7, 2023
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State Senate

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

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.
Last updated: 2023-09-21

Senate District 029

Incumbent Democratic Senator Jeremy McPike has served in the State Senate since 2016. He received his Bachelor's and Master's of Public Administration degrees from George Mason University. He is a volunteer firefighter and led the design and construction of an innovative, environmentally conscious, and award-winning volunteer fire station. He is a department director for the City of Alexandria and has worked for the city for 22 years.

Senator McPike has supported numerous progressive bills during his time in the Senate. He sponsored a bill to ensure foster children can keep their healthcare while transitioning into adulthood after turning 18. He is also committed to advancing common-sense gun safety measures, like universal background checks and blocking domestic abusers’ access to firearms. He considers redistricting reform as one of his fundamental policy goals. Sen. McPike voted to expand Medicaid in Virginia and to raise Virginia’s minimum wage.

Senator McPike recognizes abortion rights in Virginia are on the line, noting abortion ban attempts this past General Assembly session. He has stated that he fully supports reproductive rights, the right to safe and legal abortion, and access to contraceptives. He believes the government should not interfere with critical medical decisions and that Virginians should have the right to make their own choices. He voted to support the Reproductive Health Protection Act in 2020, and prioritizes codifying access to abortion into the Virginia Constitution.

Senator McPike supports public education and trusts teachers to know what is best in the classrooms. He considers Governor Youngkin’s teacher tip line as an extreme tactic to spy on educators. Senator McPike wants to invest in school facilities and teacher resources. He also stresses the importance of teaching real history.

Senator McPike advocates for workers' rights and is pro-union. He voted in favor of removing the ban on public sector collective bargaining and passed legislation to hold companies accountable for wage theft from Virginia workers. He believes in continuing to raise the minimum wage and so workers have fair pay. He also advocates for all workers having access to paid sick leave and paid family and medical leave.

Senator McPike is facing a challenge from Republican Nikki Rattray Baldwin. Baldwin grew up in Florida in the foster care system until her second placement. She earned her Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts in Psychology and her Master’s in Public Administration. Her campaign site fails to mention her stances on several issues.

Due to his record for protecting abortion access, workers rights, and public education, Senator Jeremy McPike is the progressive choice in this race.

Note: portions of this write-up were compiled from a previous Progressive Voters Guide recommendation for this candidate.

Last updated: 2023-10-27

Incumbent Democratic Senator Jeremy McPike has served in the State Senate since 2016. He received his Bachelor's and Master's of Public Administration degrees from George Mason University. He is a volunteer firefighter and led the design and construction of an innovative, environmentally conscious, and award-winning volunteer fire station. He is a department director for the City of Alexandria and has worked for the city for 22 years.

Senator McPike has supported numerous progressive bills during his time in the Senate. He sponsored a bill to ensure foster children can keep their healthcare while transitioning into adulthood after turning 18. He is also committed to advancing common-sense gun safety measures, like universal background checks and blocking domestic abusers’ access to firearms. He considers redistricting reform as one of his fundamental policy goals. Sen. McPike voted to expand Medicaid in Virginia and to raise Virginia’s minimum wage.

Senator McPike recognizes abortion rights in Virginia are on the line, noting abortion ban attempts this past General Assembly session. He has stated that he fully supports reproductive rights, the right to safe and legal abortion, and access to contraceptives. He believes the government should not interfere with critical medical decisions and that Virginians should have the right to make their own choices. He voted to support the Reproductive Health Protection Act in 2020, and prioritizes codifying access to abortion into the Virginia Constitution.

Senator McPike supports public education and trusts teachers to know what is best in the classrooms. He considers Governor Youngkin’s teacher tip line as an extreme tactic to spy on educators. Senator McPike wants to invest in school facilities and teacher resources. He also stresses the importance of teaching real history.

Senator McPike advocates for workers' rights and is pro-union. He voted in favor of removing the ban on public sector collective bargaining and passed legislation to hold companies accountable for wage theft from Virginia workers. He believes in continuing to raise the minimum wage and so workers have fair pay. He also advocates for all workers having access to paid sick leave and paid family and medical leave.

Senator McPike is facing a challenge from Republican Nikki Rattray Baldwin. Baldwin grew up in Florida in the foster care system until her second placement. She earned her Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts in Psychology and her Master’s in Public Administration. Her campaign site fails to mention her stances on several issues.

Due to his record for protecting abortion access, workers rights, and public education, Senator Jeremy McPike is the progressive choice in this race.

Note: portions of this write-up were compiled from a previous Progressive Voters Guide recommendation for this candidate.

Last updated: 2023-10-27

House District 064

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

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