Incumbent Democratic Senator Mamie Locke is a professor of Political Science at Hampton University in Virginia. She has a Ph.D. in Political Science from Atlanta University. She has received many awards and honors for her work and has several publications on race and gender. Senator Locke sits on several Senate Committees including Education and Health, Finance and Appropriations, and General Laws and Technology. She is chair of the Rules Committee, Freedom of Information Advisory Council, and the Virginia Housing Commission.

Senator Mamie Locke is staunchly pro-choice. Senator Locke voted in favor of providing menstrual products to jail and prison residents and opposed medically unnecessary ultrasounds prior to abortion. She routinely sponsors legislation to protect and expand access to reproductive health care, including sponsoring the Reproductive Health Equity Act.

Senator Locke is a strong proponent of LGBTQ communities. She supported bills that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexuality orientation and gender identity and co-sponsored a bill that would prohibit employers from discriminating against applicants due to their history with the criminal justice system. She is also in favor of common sense gun violence prevention measures.

Senator Locke is running unopposed. Because of her consistent championing of progressive values, as well as her unwavering fight to stand against attempts to roll back progressive legislation, Senator Locke is the progressive candidate in this race.

Note: Portions of this write-up were compiled from previous Progressive Voters Guide recommendations for this candidate.
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