VA State Sen. Jeremy McPike (D-Prince William County) had been widely expected to throw his hat in the ring for the VA07 Democratic nomination, after incumbent Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA07) announced in mid-November that she would be running for governor in 2025 and NOT for reelection to Congress. However, as you can see from the following statement, Sen. McPike has decided not to seek the nomination after all, but instead “will continue his service in the Virginia State Senate.” With McPike not running, that leaves the VA07 Democratic nominating contest at the following declared and likely candidates:
- Prince William County Supervisor Margaret Franklin:
- Briana Sewell
- Yevgeny Vindman
- Elizabeth Guzman
- Joel Griffin
Who does McPike’s decision not to run benefit? It’s hard to say for sure, but maybe Vindman, as the de facto “national” candidate in a field of local politicians, and as possibly the only white male, with the rest of the field – so far at least – comprised of women of color (who could each get a share of the vote). Also note that Vindman has been raising a LOT of money, getting a TON of national media, and building up a massive following on social media. So…we’ll see, but so far at least, Vindman appears to be off to a very strong start.
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Virginia State Senator Jeremy McPike Chooses Service
State Senator Jeremy McPike will not seek the Democratic nomination in Virginia’s 7th Congressional District. Will continue his service in the Virginia State Senate.
Woodbridge, VA — State Senator Jeremy McPike, a ranking member in the Virginia Senate, announced today that he will not seek the Democratic nomination in Virginia’s 7th Congressional District. He will continue his service in the Virginia State Senate, where he will serve as Chairman of the Senate Committee of Local Government.
Senator McPike had the following to say:
“Service is, at heart, what has guided my life. It’s why I’ve served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, and State Senator. I am humbled by the countless elected and local leaders, volunteers, donors, and supporters who have reached out and encouraged me to run for Congress. However, after careful consideration and many thoughtful conversations with my friends and family, I believe I can best serve the people of Virginia by continuing my service in the State Senate.”
“No one knows what the future may hold. But for now, with our slim majorities in the General Assembly, I will continue the fight to improve the lives of everyday Virginians. Because there is so much work left to do— make healthcare more accessible and affordable, protect women’s reproductive rights, and lower the cost of living. I look forward to getting to work.”