Elections Matter

Virginia’s elections on Tuesday were clear in their results. Pundits will discuss the results trying to discern what truths they can. The truth I know is that for the first time in over 30 years, Northern Fauquier county where we live will be represented in the House of Delegates by a Democrat – my friend John McAuliff. 

 The results up and down the ticket overall were massive. Spanberger won by over 14%. Hashmi won the Lieutenant Governor position by over 11% and Jay Jones won Attorney General by over 5%. Democrats picked up 13 seats in the House of Delegates and now lead Republicans 64-36. Virginians sent a clear message to America.

 Two years ago, at the local level in the 30th House of Delegates race, Democrat Rob Banse lost by just over 5 points – 53.1% to 46.7%. The difference was 2,503 votes.

 John McAuliff started his campaign at the end of November in 2024. On Tuesday, eleven months later, he won by 636 votes, 50.7% to 49.1% or just over 1.5 points. Do not let anyone kid you. Every single vote matters.

 John was a powerful candidate and will make a great delegate. Of course he did not get there alone. Voting matters, but so does all the other work people do. Whether donating their time or money, canvassing, putting up signs, hosting a fundraiser, hosting a meet and greet, texting, phone banking, volunteering, or working special events, every single person makes a difference. We have the results here in Fauquier and across the Commonwealth to show for it.

 I look forward to seeing John sworn in next January and then watching him get to work. It’s going to be a busy year for John, and for our state government. 

 As Bob Dylan sang, “You don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows.”