Energy! That word describes what all the financial disclosures of the Virginia House of Delegates show, from the number of contributors to how much money was raised. We got to see for the first time just how competitive this year’s Delegate races are. They are a sign of what David Toscano, the House Democratic Leader, said was “the rising tide of resistance” among Democrats against Republicans, especially Donald Trump. Jacqueline Smith’s election night victory in Prince William County’s clerk of court race is not only the first victory, but a look at how November is looking more dangerous for Republicans everyday.
But here’s what blew me away, and made me think: Can that happen in Virginia Beach? In raising $21,000, what really mattered was not the money, but the number of people who stepped up to support my race. Over 360 individual contributors, donating anywhere from $3 to $250, stepped up to support our growing effort to retake the 21st seat for Democrats this year. We already have more individual contributions and contributors than any past campaign for this seat since 2009... and it’s ONLY APRIL. That’s people power. It’s a reminder that I am truly beholden to the everyday Virginian, who is looking for us to bring Medicaid expansion, keep public money in public schools, and fight back against climate change.
Virginia Beach has not had a Democrat representing us since Bobby Mathieson in 2009. Most Virginians here have assumed it is all Republican, and the fight is in Northern Virginia or Richmond. But just like last week, we found voters like this one in our canvass who said:
Voter: Why are you wasting your time in this neighborhood? I’m the only Democrat on my block.
Volunteer: I don’t think so. Your neighbor 3 doors down is a Democrat. So is the one across the street.
Voter: Really?? I thought they were Republicans! Is it okay to talk with them?
Volunteer: We need each other. Let’s get together and see who else is out here.
Our community is waking up, and the 360 contributors to my campaign are building a campaign that can win. It’s a sign our message to support hard working families is resonating and momentum is building. And we still have seven months before the big day as our campaign grows and fights harder. That’s why every day I am building out, reaching out, asking ordinary Virginians to give whatever they can ($3, $21, $58.12) to fuel the movement.
Because we can surprise Virginia on November 7th, just like June 18th. We can make Prince William County happen HERE in Virginia Beach.
P.S. Check out other constitutional office candidates John Bell for Sheriff and Susan Hippen for Treasurer (website coming soon).
My Website | Facebook | Donate