Statement by the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) on the First Day of Early Voting for the Virginia Legislative Elections

From the DLCC:

RELEASE: The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee on the First Day of Early Voting for the Virginia Legislative Elections

Washington, DC – Today, Friday, September 22 marks the first day of early voting in the Virginia legislative elections – the first time the full Virginia legislature is on the ballot since the fall of Roe.

As Republican candidates across the commonwealth pledge to roll back fundamental freedoms for Virginians, and following a string of electoral victories in special elections so far in 2023, the DLCC is leaving nothing to chance in Virginia, putting significant investments and resources into the Democratic Senate and House caucuses and candidates.

In the past year alone, the DLCC has:

• Been on the ground in Virginia since January (the first national organization to do so), when we helped flip a critical Senate seat in a special election.
• To date, directed or committed well above seven figures directly to the Virginia House and Senate caucuses, including wiring an additional $400k yesterday. We have also invested significant staff time and other resources to counter the barrage of spending from Glenn Youngkin and others trying to flood the state.
• Our early spending in the spring helped build a strong foundation and critical infrastructure in the state so that Democrats on the ground can take full advantage of later spending and support from other groups.

With early voting beginning, it’s clear that the DLCC and in-state partners are leaving nothing to chance and continuing to do everything we possibly can to uplift our candidates, meet voters where they are, and win in November.

Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee Interim President Heather Williams issued the following statement:

“With early voting beginning, everything is on the line in Virginia. Virginia is the last state in the South that still protects reproductive freedoms and with the extremism seen with Republican candidates under right-wing Governor Glenn Youngkin, we must win this election to ensure Virginia never has a Republican trifecta. If Democrats lose both chambers, millions of people will have their fundamental rights, including access to abortion and voting rights, taken away under Youngkin’s rule.

“The DLCC has been making historic investments and supporting our candidates throughout this year. We’re working with our partners and campaigns on the ground to make sure everyone understands what is at stake in Virginia this November. Before Democrats talk about 2024 and the upcoming presidential race, it is critical that we pay attention to the high-stakes elections playing out in Virginia right now and that we don’t let up. As we head into the final weeks, we aren’t taking anything for granted. We are going to continue fighting back against Republican attacks and mobilizing the resources Democrats need to win, right up until Election Day.

“Whether it’s the onslaught of extreme bills passed by the Republican House or Gov. Youngkins’ promise of an abortion ban, Democratic majorities are the best line of defense for our most fundamental rights.”