Delegate Joshua Cole, the first African American elected to represent Virginia’s 65th House District, announced his re-election campaign on Thursday night.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the residents of the 65th District,” Cole, who was first elected to the statehouse in 2019, said in a press release. “We’ve accomplished so much together, but there is still important work to be done. I’m running for re-election to continue the fight for strong public schools, affordable healthcare, and a vibrant economy for all Virginians.”
To officially kick off his re-election campaign, Cole (D-Fredericksburg) will host a launch party at 6 p.m. on Jan. 3 at Pimenta restaurant in downtown Fredericksburg. The event will feature Speaker of the House of Delegates Don Scott, who will join Cole’s supporters.
During his tenure, Delegate Cole has secured over $3 million for career and technical education programs, creating a retail sales tax holiday for back-to-school shopping, and ensuring college students have access to mental health resources through updated ID card requirements. He has defended voting rights, expanded Medicaid access, improved rural healthcare, and supported policies that protect workers and promote affordable housing.
“We still have so many challenges ahead,” Cole said. “Our office receives more calls for assistance than ever on real issues that need to be resolved. We will not only safeguard the hard-fought gains we’ve made but continue pushing for changes that help every Virginian.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m eager to continue serving the 65th District.”
