The Fredericksburg Free Press asked candidates for the 7th Congressional District primary election to answer five questions in 250 words or less. The following responses are in the candidate’s own words and have only been lightly edited for length or clarity. The primary election is June 18. The general election is Nov. 5.
What was the moment you decided to become involved in politics?
I was raised by a single father after my mother passed away from cancer when I was eight years old. I saw firsthand the struggles that working families go through in order to make ends meet. This inspired me to go to Howard University for grad school and pursue a career in public service.
If you were to win the primary, would you broaden your message to appeal to voters outside your own party? If so, how?
My message is about issues that impact all Virginians and their families, not just Democratic voters. Protecting reproductive freedom, reducing gun violence, and making sure we have an economy that works for everyone has widespread support from the voters of the 7th District.
The House of Representatives operates at the federal level. What will you do to ensure that the interests of your constituents in the 7th District are well represented?
I worked on Capitol Hill for nearly a decade and so I understand how Congress works and will be able to hit the ground running on Day 1. I also understand how to work across the aisle to deliver results for my constituents and will make constituent services priority number 1 while serving.
What is the defining issue of this race?
Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade, millions have lost the fundamental right to choose. Many states have banned and criminalized abortion, even in cases of rape, incest, and when the life of the woman is at stake. Women have been forced to cross state lines to receive life-saving reproductive care. They have faced criminal investigations into miscarriages. And until we have a Congress willing to act, these horrific stories will continue. I will pass a guaranteed national right to choose, stopping right-wing extremists from banning it in Virginia.
In addition, we must forge ahead with an economy that works for everyone regardless of background. My campaign has been about working families guaranteeing that we expand basic freedoms such as health care and education to all.
It’s Jan. 3, 2025. You have been newly inaugurated as part of the new United States Congress. What is your first course of action?
My first course of action is to make sure district offices are open and adequately staffed in order to continue the great constituent services that Congresswoman Spanberger has provided to the district.
