An increasing number of Democrats have announced for the nomination to take on the egregiously awful Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA01). Let’s hope we nominate the strongest candidate and beat Wittman next year, because he really, really sucks. See below for a press release this morning from “attorney, veteran and community leader Melvin Tull” – who joins Andrew Lucchetti, Amanda Pohl and Lisa Vedernikova Khanna [UPDATE: and James Shea] in the race so far…
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Melvin Tull Launches Campaign for Congress in Virginia’s 1st District
July 10, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: info@meltullforcongress.com
Henrico, VA – Today, attorney, veteran, and community leader Melvin Tull officially announced his candidacy for Congress in Virginia’s 1st Congressional District, challenging Republican incumbent Rob Wittman in one of the most competitive races of the 2026 cycle.
“I’m running for Congress because Virginia’s 1st District deserves a representative who shows up for working families, veterans, small business owners, and all of our families,” said Tull. “Our district needs a leader with the courage to fight for an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected.”
Tull’s life is a testament to grit, service, and common-sense leadership. Raised by a single, working mother, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17 with just $15 in his pocket and worked his way through college and law school. Over the past 30 years, he has built a successful legal career where he supports other local businesses, founded his own law firm, and led efforts to support vulnerable children and families through organizations like Henrico CASA and the Children’s Home Society of Virginia.
A proud husband, father, and small-business owner, Tull brings deep roots in the community and a pragmatic approach to public service. His campaign will focus on lowering costs for everyday Virginians, defending reproductive rights and voting access, investing in schools and job training, and restoring honesty and decency to Washington.
Tull enters the race as the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) names Rob Wittman as one of the most vulnerable Republicans in the country. VA-01 is now officially on the DCCC’s 2026 Districts-in-Play list, highlighting this seat as a top pick-up opportunity for Democrats seeking to reclaim the House majority.
“Our families need leaders that put them first. I will fight every day to lower costs, improve our schools, and protect our health care. Rob Wittman has failed the families that depend on him. I’m eager to fight on their behalf in Congress.”
To learn more about Melvin Tull’s campaign, visit meltullforcongress.com
