This past Wednesday, Fairfax City Democrats Chair Laura Stokes sent a questionnaire to candidates for the Democratic nomination in HD17 (Franconia-Springfield area of Fairfax County; deep-blue seat) to replace Del. Mark Sickles, who in a few weeks will be moving into the Abigail Spanberger administration as Secretary of Finance. For more on the HD17 Democratic candidates (Russell Brooks, Carla Bustillos, Garrett McGuire, Joy McManus) and who’s supporting them, see here.  As for the questionnaire, Stokes asked that candidates get their answers back “by Saturday December 27 at 10 am,” and said they’d be posted on Blue Virginia with a headshot of each candidate. So with that, given the limited time until the firehouse primary TOMORROW starting at 9 am, I’m going to post these as they’re received. Thanks to the candidates for doing this!

First, here are the responses from Joy McManus.

Question #1: Please provide a 200-word biographical introduction and talk about why you are running for this seat.

Response from Joy McManus: I am a longtime Fairfax County resident, public school educator, and community advocate running to serve District 17 in the Virginia House of Delegates.

I spent 30 years teaching in Fairfax County Public Schools, where I saw firsthand how strong public education opens doors and how rising costs make it harder for working families to get by. As a teacher and the mother of two, I understand the everyday challenges families face balancing education, safety, housing, and health care, and I bring that real-world perspective to public service.

Outside the classroom, I have been a leading advocate for public safety and gun violence prevention. As a Chapter Lead for the Virginia chapter of Moms Demand Action, I helped build local coalitions focused on practical, common-sense solutions that keep kids, families, and law enforcement officers safe.

I have also served in civic leadership roles with the Fairfax County Democratic Committee and as Statewide Volunteer Coordinator for the Spanberger for Governor campaign.

I am running for Delegate to make Fairfax County more affordable, strengthen public schools, keep communities safe, and protect personal freedoms, including reproductive freedom, by supporting the constitutional amendments voters will consider this session—and deliver results for District 17.

Question #2: What do you think will be your policy focus in your work as a Delegate – what’s your number one priority? (Limit 250 words.)

Response from Joy McManus: The most valuable resource that our district has are our students and young people. To truly understand how to best protect and nurture that resource requires the perspective that only a teacher can bring. As a more than 30 year veteran of our public schools–I have that perspective.

In the House of Delegates I’ll immediately put that perspective to work advocating for practical solutions to increasing teacher pay, reducing class sizes, and maximizing both the progress and proficiency of our students. That being said, supporting our students does not stop at the classroom door. I’ll also champion workforce development efforts such as Franconia’s Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (WISH), advocate for stronger red flag and public safety initiatives, as well as support workforce housing programs that ensure that our students can afford to live in the community where they study and live. 

Question #3: As a Delegate, how will you support increasing affordability in Northern Virginia, particularly in terms of increased affordable housing? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Joy McManus: I would take a comprehensive approach to improving housing affordability, with a particular focus on renters. Renters are often the most vulnerable to housing cost volatility. One area where the legislature could take immediate action would be addressing the widespread use of identical rent-setting software by large corporate landlords, which can artificially inflate rents. I would work with Senator Surovell and other local legislators to investigate potential price-fixing and anticompetitive practices, following the precedent set by Washington, D.C.

I also support expanding the Magnet Housing program so that essential workers—such as teachers, first responders, and healthcare professionals—can afford to live in the communities they serve. Supervisor Lusk’s efforts to convert former county sites into housing assets are precisely the kinds of models that we need to replicate.

Next, it is critical that we address supply constraints. We must encourage the construction of starter homes and “missing middle” housing. Too often, builders prioritize large, luxury homes, while smaller, more affordable homes are torn down. Targeted subsidies or incentives for builders who construct townhomes and smaller single-family homes on modest lots can help reverse this trend and expand homeownership opportunities.

Finally, we must remain focused on the fact that affordability is directly linked to wages, and access to living-wage jobs that do not require an advanced degree. This foundational principle comes full circle, back to my stated top legislative priority of leveraging my experience as an educator to advance legislation that supports our schools alongside innovative workforce development programs. 

Question #4: As a Delegate, what other legislation would you support to increase affordability for working families in the Commonwealth? (250 words) 

Response from Joy McManus: I was proud to serve as Governor-Elect Spanberger’s state-wide Volunteer Coordinator. As Delegate, I would proudly advocate for the principles outlined in her Affordable Virginia Plan. 

To address increasing healthcare costs, I would back strong limits on the role of Pharmacy Benefit Managers to prevent inflated drug prices and ensure savings reach patients at the pharmacy counter. I would also support legislation to curb excessive prior authorization requirements, so medical decisions are made by patients and their doctors—not delayed or denied by for-profit insurers. In addition, I support premium assistance for low-income Virginians enrolled in ACA plans to help families afford coverage without sacrificing other necessities.

To address rising utility bills, I would advocate for increased oversight of power monopolies to protect consumers from unjustified rate hikes. I also support expanding financial assistance and streamlining regulations for homeowners seeking to improve energy efficiency, helping families lower monthly costs while reducing energy demand statewide.

Education and childcare affordability are equally critical. Universal Pre-K is one of the most effective ways to reduce costs for working parents while improving long-term outcomes for children and strengthening our workforce.

Finally, I support tying the minimum wage to inflation so wages keep pace with the cost of living and families never again face decades of stagnation. Together, these policies would make Virginia more affordable, fair, and economically secure for working families.

Question #5: How will you work as a Delegate to bring more funding to our public schools in northern Virginia? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Joy McManus: As a Delegate, I will work aggressively to bring more resources to Northern Virginia public schools by expanding funding streams and strengthening the educator pipeline.

First, I will pursue creative, sustainable revenue sources by building stronger partnerships between businesses and high schools. Northern Virginia is home to world-class employers in technology, defense, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. I will advocate for incentive-based partnerships that encourage businesses to invest in career and technical education, internships, apprenticeships, and dual-enrollment programs. These partnerships can help fund equipment, labs, and real-world learning opportunities that prepare students for both college and high-demand careers, while easing pressure on local school budgets.

Second, I will champion a “Teacher Service Scholarship” program modeled after ROTC. Under this approach, Virginia students pursuing education degrees would receive scholarships or tuition assistance in exchange for a commitment to teach in Virginia public schools for at least five years. This program would help address teacher shortages, reduce turnover, and ensure Northern Virginia classrooms are staffed with well-prepared, committed educators—while lowering student debt for future teachers.

In Richmond, I will also fight to ensure Northern Virginia receives its fair share of state education funding by fully funding Standards of Quality requirements, and resisting attempts to shift costs onto local governments.

By investing in innovative partnerships and long-term solutions to the teacher shortage, we can strengthen our schools, support educators, and give every Northern Virginia student the resources they deserve to succeed.

Question #6: What is your position on a referendum for a proposed casino in the Tysons/Reston area? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Joy McManus: Voters deserve to have their voice heard on this issue. I support bringing a referendum forward. 

Question #7: What is your position on passing campaign finance reform – including limits on corporate and individual donations? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Joy McManus: I strongly support meaningful campaign finance reform to restore public trust and ensure that elections in Virginia are decided by voters—not by the size of a donor’s check.

First, I support state constitutional reform to strengthen transparency in political spending. Virginia should adopt a system similar to Arizona’s Proposition 211, requiring full public disclosure of any individual or entity that contributes more than $5,000 to influence an election. Voters have a right to know who is funding campaigns and ballot efforts, especially when large sums are involved.

Second, I am open to reasonable limits on both corporate and individual contributions, paired with reforms that elevate the voices of everyday Virginians. One approach worth serious consideration is requiring candidates to raise a meaningful portion of their campaign funds from small-dollar donations—such as contributions under $10 or $25—to qualify for the ballot or for additional benefits. This would incentivize grassroots engagement rather than reliance on large donors.

Finally, I support exploring voluntary public financing of elections. A well-designed system would provide enough funding to make participation viable for candidates without creating incentives for waste or abuse. Public financing should reward broad community support, reduce barriers for qualified candidates, and allow public servants to focus on governing rather than constant fundraising.

Taken together—greater transparency, sensible contribution limits, and voluntary public financing—these reforms would make Virginia’s democracy more accountable, fair, and representative of the people it serves.

[Note: The candidates were also asked whether they support or oppose constitutional amendments on repealing the same-sex-marriage ban, creating a right to reproductive freedom, allowing convicted felons to vote following release from incarceration, and redrawing congressional districts mid-decade. Joy McManus says she supports all four.]

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Next, here’s Garrett McGuire:

Question #1: Please provide a 200-word biographical introduction and talk about why you are running for this seat. 

Response from Garrett McGuire: I’m Garrett McGuire, a husband, father of two, nonprofit leader, and longtime public policy professional who has spent my career serving Fairfax County. I currently serve as Chair of United Community, where I worked to expand access to food assistance, workforce supports, and services for working families. I also served as Chair of the Fairfax–Falls Church Community Services Board, helping guide our mental health and disability services system through COVID, a historic staffing shortage, and the implementation of innovative crisis response models.

I am running for Delegate to bring experienced, collaborative leadership to Richmond—leadership that understands how government works and how to deliver results for Fairfax County. With Delegate Mark Sickles stepping into a senior role in the Spanberger Administration, I am proud to have his endorsement, along with the support of Governor Ralph Northam and Chairman Jeff McKay, as I work to advocate for our community and protect the services families rely on every day.

As a parent raising two young daughters, I see firsthand how rising costs—housing, childcare, and healthcare—are squeezing families. I am running to make life more affordable, fully fund public education, strengthen our social safety net, and ensure Fairfax County continues to thrive.

Question #2: What do you think will be your policy focus in your work as a Delegate – what’s your number one priority? (Limit 250 words.)

Response from Garrett McGuire: The unifying issue I hear from families across our community is affordability. Northern Virginia remains a wonderful place to live, but too many families are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of housing, childcare, groceries, healthcare, and transportation.

This issue is deeply personal for me. My wife and I have two young daughters, and every month our childcare costs alone are equivalent to an additional mortgage payment. That is simply not sustainable for most families, and it highlights how disconnected policy can be from lived experience.

Affordability is not a single-issue problem—it touches housing, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and the social safety net. If elected, I will approach this challenge holistically, focusing on policies that allow individuals and families not just to survive, but to thrive. That means increasing housing supply, investing in transportation and infrastructure, lowering healthcare costs, and protecting the services that help families stay afloat during difficult moments.

My goal is to ensure Fairfax County remains a place where working families, seniors, and young people can build a future without being priced out of the community they call home.

Question #3: As a Delegate, how will you support increasing affordability in Northern Virginia, particularly in terms of increased affordable housing? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Garrett McGuire: Northern Virginia’s housing shortage is one of the primary drivers of rising costs, and addressing it requires urgency and realism. As Delegate, I would strongly support policies that increase housing supply at all income levels, streamline approval processes, and encourage transit-oriented and mixed-use development where appropriate.

I align closely with the housing agenda advanced by Governor-elect Spanberger, which emphasizes increasing supply, reducing regulatory barriers, and incentivizing the construction of workforce and middle-income housing. We cannot solve our housing crisis without building more homes, particularly near jobs and transit.

At the state level, we should expand tools for local governments to approve housing more quickly, modernize zoning and land-use policies where appropriate, and ensure state funding programs prioritize high-cost regions like Northern Virginia. We must also preserve existing affordable housing, particularly along aging commercial corridors and near transit, to prevent displacement.

Housing affordability is economic development, workforce policy, and family policy all rolled into one. Addressing it thoughtfully will strengthen our economy and ensure Fairfax County remains accessible to the people who power it.

Question #4: As a Delegate, what other legislation would you support to increase affordability for working families in the Commonwealth? (250 words) 

Response from Garrett McGuire: One area I am particularly focused on is the cost of childcare, which has become one of the largest and most unsustainable expenses for working families. Parents are often forced to choose between staying in the workforce and affording quality care, a tradeoff that hurts families and our economy alike. As a parent of two young children, I see firsthand how childcare costs can rival a second mortgage. I support policies that expand access to affordable, high-quality childcare by investing in providers, supporting the childcare workforce, and creating targeted relief for families, so parents can work and children can thrive.

Given the federal government’s failure to act on healthcare I also strongly support making healthcare expenses fully deductible on state income taxes. Healthcare is one of the largest and most unpredictable expenses families face, and our tax code should recognize that reality. Allowing families to deduct healthcare costs would provide immediate relief, align with Democratic priorities around healthcare affordability, and help families better manage out-of-pocket expenses.

Taken together, these approaches reflect how I will view affordability as a Delegate: not as isolated policies, but as a coordinated effort to lower everyday costs, invest in shared infrastructure, and improve families’ bottom lines across the Commonwealth.

Question #5: How will you work as a Delegate to bring more funding to our public schools in northern Virginia? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Garrett McGuire: Bringing more funding to public schools in Northern Virginia requires both honesty about the challenges we face and creativity in how we address them. The biggest structural issue for Fairfax County is the Local Composite Index (LCI). The General Assembly has acknowledged multiple times that the formula is outdated and does not reflect the true cost of educating students in high-cost regions like Northern Virginia. Unfortunately, a direct overhaul of the LCI faces significant opposition from other regions of the Commonwealth that would see substantial funding reductions, making a full formula change unlikely in the near term.

That reality means we must pursue alternative strategies that deliver more resources to our schools without destabilizing the statewide funding system. One effective approach is expanding targeted funding streams tied to student need. This is an area where Delegate Mark Sickles has done important work, and I would build on that foundation. Nearly 36 percent of Fairfax County students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Increasing state allocations based on this population would more accurately reflect student needs and bring meaningful new resources to our schools.

In addition, I will support expanding categorical funding for special education, early childhood education, and mental health services in schools—areas where costs are rising fastest. By increasing these targeted funding pools, we can ensure Fairfax County schools receive fairer support while continuing to advocate for long-term improvements to the funding formula.

Question #6: What is your position on a referendum for a proposed casino in the Tysons/Reston area? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Garrett McGuire: In conversations with residents across southern Fairfax County, the issues I hear about most often are the immediate pressures families are facing—federal layoffs and uncertainty, rising housing and childcare costs, and the challenge of keeping up with everyday expenses. These are the concerns that shape people’s daily lives and understandably command much of the community’s attention.

That said, any proposal of this magnitude must be driven by local support, not top-down initiatives. To date, the casino proposals that have surfaced have not reflected broad community consensus or a clear process led by local residents and elected officials. I do not believe the General Assembly should impose a decision of this scale on Fairfax County.

It is also important to recognize the distinction between enabling legislation and final approval. While the General Assembly may consider legislation that grants local governments the authority to pursue certain economic development options, the ultimate decision should rest with the people most affected. I would not support a casino in Fairfax County without voters having the opportunity to decide for themselves through a local referendum.

My role as Delegate will be to ensure that local voices are respected, that decisions reflect community priorities, and that the General Assembly remains focused on the pressing issues facing families in our district.

Question #7: What is your position on passing campaign finance reform – including limits on corporate and individual donations? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Garrett McGuire: There is no question that Virginia’s campaign finance system is in need of reform. Relying so heavily on unlimited corporate contributions and private fundraising limits who can realistically run for office, and fuels public skepticism about who elected officials truly represent. If we want a healthy democracy and a General Assembly that reflects the diversity of the Commonwealth, we need to modernize how campaigns are financed.

At the same time, we must be honest about what is achievable in Richmond and focus on steps that deliver real improvement. One clear starting point is enforcement. Today, campaign finance laws are largely unenforced. While recent audit reforms expanded the Department of Elections’ oversight, they stopped short of providing meaningful enforcement tools.

As a Delegate, I would work to strengthen enforcement by increasing funding and resources for the Department of Elections and exploring a more centralized enforcement mechanism, potentially through the Attorney General’s office. Laws without enforcement undermine trust in government, and restoring that trust must be a priority.

[Note: The candidates were also asked whether they support or oppose constitutional amendments on repealing the same-sex-marriage ban, creating a right to reproductive freedom, allowing convicted felons to vote following release from incarceration, and redrawing congressional districts mid-decade. Garett McGuire says he supports all four.]

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Next, here’s Russell Brooks

Question #1: Please provide a 200-word biographical introduction and talk about why you are running for this seat. 

Response from Russell Brooks: I am a retired Foreign Service officer who served my country through the U.S. Department of State in both domestic and overseas assignments, specializing in public diplomacy. Over more than two decades, I worked in several countries to promote democracy, freedom, and opportunity as foundations for stability and shared prosperity.

When I returned home, I saw those same American values under threat — and I saw federal workers increasingly politicized, devalued, and placed at risk. Having served alongside dedicated public servants for 21 years, I know the sacrifices federal employees and their families make, and how federal job cuts and dysfunction ripple through our communities. That is why I am running for Delegate in HD-17: to defend federal workers, protect the dignity of public service, and help our region recover economically.

I have continued my commitment to service here at home as a member of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee, Precinct Captain for Kingstowne, and Franconia representative on the Fairfax County Public Library Board.

Virginia is a great state, but rising costs, affordable housing challenges, and access to health care demand action. It would be the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of HD-17 and fight for a stronger, fairer future.

Question #2: What do you think will be your policy focus in your work as a Delegate – what’s your number one priority? (Limit 250 words.)

Response from Russell Brooks: Economic revitalization and a strong social safety net will be central to my work as Delegate for HD-17. Families across our region are facing rising costs, job uncertainty, and real anxiety about access to health care and basic services. When economic shocks or federal policy changes threaten stability, Virginia must step up to protect its people and keep communities whole.

Health care is foundational to economic security. When families lose coverage or cannot afford care, the consequences ripple through our workforce and local economy. I will work to safeguard access to affordable, quality health care and ensure that working families, seniors, and children are not left behind.

Education is one of the most powerful tools for long-term economic recovery. Fairfax County’s schools are a source of pride, but they depend on sustained state investment to meet growing needs. My own children attended middle and high school in Falls Church, and the education they received opened doors to higher education and meaningful careers. Every child in HD-17 deserves the same chance to succeed.

A resilient economy, strong schools, and a dependable safety net are inseparable. I will fight for policies that help families recover, rebuild, and thrive — today and for the future.

Question #3: As a Delegate, how will you support increasing affordability in Northern Virginia, particularly in terms of increased affordable housing? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Russell Brooks: Increased affordable housing is absolutely critical to our community. The problem must be approached from two different avenues. First is increased exploration of how we can attract developers to build affordable housing. While local government will play the most significant role in determining where new housing might be built and the zoning regulations that will govern those developments, state government must work hand in hand with both the developers and local government to facilitate housing focused on middle income families. I would listen to the concerns of both developers, community organizations, and local government in order to negotiate joint approaches that will meet the needs within HD-17. Second, I must recognize that some communities are concerned about the impact of affordable housing on their current property values. While many of the concerns that are frequently raised Are based on misconceptions about affordable housing, kit is important that all voices ate heard and given die consideration. If we demonstrate that everyone has been heard, I am convinced that we can minimize any opposition to increased development of affordable housing.

Question #4: As a Delegate, what other legislation would you support to increase affordability for working families in the Commonwealth? (250 words) 

Response from Russell Brooks: Another area that must be explored to further the goal of increased affordability is legislation to restrain increases in the cost of utilities. We are well aware of the impact of data centers on the electrical bills in the communities that host these massive complexes due to their appetite for power. While Virginians will benefit from the taxes paid by the companies behind the data centers and they want the jobs that will accompany the centers, it is entirely unfair for middle-income and low-income consumers to shoulder higher utility bills. To curtail this from occurring, we need increased scrutiny of the impact of these centers and the development of appropriate regulations to hold down the cost to consumers. Virginia must also continue to explore expanding its sources of energy. Unfortunately, the federal government is withdrawing support for offshore windmills. Virginia must not let this mistaken federal policy stop the state’s progress in the realm of diversifying its energy resources. By developing a greater variety of energy sources, market forces will naturally lead to a reduction in the cost of energy and in combination with appropriate regulation, Virginians will see progress in this area.

Question #5: How will you work as a Delegate to bring more funding to our public schools in northern Virginia? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Russell Brooks: Securing adequate funding for our schools is one of the most important responsibilities of the General Assembly, and it requires collaboration across regions and perspectives. Northern Virginia contributes significantly to the Commonwealth’s economy, and it is essential that our schools receive the resources they need to maintain the high standards families expect. At the same time, many communities across Virginia are working to strengthen their own school systems, and their needs deserve to be part of the conversation.

Effective leadership means recognizing these shared goals and working constructively to meet them. My approach will be grounded in cooperation, careful listening, and a clear understanding of both the fiscal realities and the human impact of education policy. We are strongest as a Commonwealth when we invest in every child while ensuring that fast-growing regions like ours are not left behind.

As a former diplomat, I am experienced in navigating complex negotiations and finding solutions that balance competing priorities. That work requires understanding different perspectives, identifying common ground, and building durable agreements. I intend to bring those same skills to the General Assembly to advocate for Fairfax County and to help craft education policies that work for students, families, and communities across Virginia.

Question #6: What is your position on a referendum for a proposed casino in the Tysons/Reston area? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Russell Brooks: I oppose the establishment of a casino in the Tysons/Reston area. I have studied the issue and I am aware of the arguments being advanced by both sides. The concern about increased traffic and congestion by one side versus the desire for more jobs. My position is based on the fact that it is abundantly clear that the community that will be affected is overwhelmingly opposed to this project. While it is certainly true that a responsible leader should not be a passive follower of public opinion, in this matter I do not see a compelling reason for overruling the sentiment being expressed so clearly by the community. I will support projects to bring new jobs to Fairfax County. I emphatically believe economic diversification is a must for the county as a result of the federal cutbacks and the consequent job losses that have harmed so many of our friends and neighbors. I think the County must explore other economically-viable avenues instead of a casino that will enable the County to reach that worthy goal.

Question #7: What is your position on passing campaign finance reform – including limits on corporate and individual donations? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Russell Brooks: I wholeheartedly support campaign finance reform in Virginia. The lack of campaign finance restrictions has been criticized by many for quite some time, but little has been done about the problem. With Democrats in control of the Legislature and the Governor’s office, there is reason for hope that something can finally be done.

Virginians across the state will have more confidence in their government if they no longer believe that big money interests have outsize influence over the decisions of their state government. Campaigns for public office should be largely funded by the public. To accomplish this goal there should be limitations on the size of individual and corporate contributions and complete transparency as to who is contributing how much to whom. Rather than being a laggard in this very important area, let’s make Virginia a role-model for the rest of the nation.

I will certainly be a vocal advocate for campaign finance reform, and I hope my colleagues will join me.

[Note: The candidates were also asked whether they support or oppose constitutional amendments on repealing the same-sex-marriage ban, creating a right to reproductive freedom, allowing convicted felons to vote following release from incarceration, and redrawing congressional districts mid-decade. Russell Brooks says he supports all four.]

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Finally, here’s Carla Bustillos:

Question #1: Please provide a 200-word biographical introduction and talk about why you are running for this seat. 

Response from Carla Bustillos: My name is Carla Bustillos, and I am running because a vibrant community like District 17 deserves strong, experienced, and inclusive leadership. I’m a first-generation American who has called this district home since my youth and am now raising my children here. I’m a proud Franconia Democrat, community leader, and local startup investor running to represent our community in the Virginia House of Delegates.

For decades, I’ve worked alongside families, workers, and entrepreneurs across Virginia. As a business owner, I understand the real pressures Fairfax families face. From rising costs and long commutes to unattainable housing and childcare.

I’ve also served in Democratic leadership focused on delivering results. I currently serve as Chair of the Democratic Latino Organization of Virginia, previously served as Chair of Latinos for Spanberger, and 11th Congressional District Democratic Committee member. That work has earned the support of Clean Virginia, CASA, JUNTOS, the VLC, and a strong grassroots volunteer team.

I’m running to be a fierce champion for District 17—fighting for attainable housing, strong
public schools, good-paying jobs, lower costs for working families, and a government that listens and delivers. Richmond should work for all of us, and I’m ready to bring our voices forward.

Question #2: What do you think will be your policy focus in your work as a Delegate – what’s your number one priority? (Limit 250 words.)

Response from Carla Bustillos: If elected, my number one policy focus as a Delegate will be affordability because it is the most urgent issue facing Virginia families today. Across Northern Virginia, families are asking the same question: how do we afford groceries, housing, childcare, healthcare, and basic living expenses while still planning for the future? Too many people are one illness, accident, or unexpected bill away from financial crisis.

My family came to the United States from Venezuela in search of the American Dream. That dream was built on the idea that hard work would lead to stability and opportunity. Today, for too many working families, that promise feels increasingly out of reach. When families are forced to work two or three jobs just to cover basic necessities, something is fundamentally broken—and the longer that reality persists, the more fragile our democracy becomes.

As a Delegate, I will be a champion for working families, immigrant communities, veterans, military families, and federal workers. My focus will be on reducing costs and increasing incomes so that one good-paying job is enough to support a family. That means fighting for attainable housing, accessible childcare, lower healthcare costs, and investments in public schools and transportation that ease daily financial pressures.

Affordability is not a single policy, it’s a framework for governing. I will prioritize practical, people-centered solutions that help families not just survive, but thrive, and ensure Virginia remains a place where the American Dream is once again within reach.

Question #3: As a Delegate, how will you support increasing affordability in Northern Virginia, particularly in terms of increased affordable housing? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Carla Bustillos: As a Delegate, increasing affordability in Northern Virginia, especially access to affordable housing, will be a top priority for me, because housing costs affect everything from family stability to workforce retention and economic growth.

First, I will support increased funding and innovative mechanisms to expand the supply of affordable housing. In Northern Virginia, that means ensuring new development includes meaningful affordable options and that proposals prioritize mixed-income, planned communities with a range of housing types. I strongly support increasing investments in the Virginia Housing Trust Fund so localities have the resources they need to build and preserve affordable homes. I also support creative partnerships, including working with the faith community to unlock underutilized land owned by faith-based organizations for affordable housing through “Yes in God’s Backyard” legislation.

Second, affordability is not just about supply, it’s also about mobility and stability. I will support policies that ensure wages rise faster than inflation and that school quality is strong in every neighborhood, not just a select few. When families can afford to live near good schools, jobs, and transit, housing pressure eases across the region.

Finally, I recognize that today’s high interest rates have slowed housing turnover, with many homeowners staying put after refinancing at lower rates. I will work to support policies that increase housing mobility and expand options for first-time buyers and growing families, so Northern Virginia remains livable and accessible for all.

Question #4: As a Delegate, what other legislation would you support to increase affordability for working families in the Commonwealth? (250 words) 

Response from Carla Bustillos: In addition to affordable housing, I support legislation that would decrease costs for Virginia families across a range of issues, including energy, healthcare, and childcare. First, I support lower energy costs for Virginians. I have earned the support of Clean Virginia – I do not support utility rate increases for Virginians at this moment where Virginia’s economy has taken a hit thanks to Trump’s chaotic and corrupt economic policies.

Second, I support common sense policies to reduce healthcare costs, like Abigail Spanberger’s plan to eliminate incentives for pharmacy benefit managers to increase costs. Virginians are about to see healthcare premiums go up and rural hospitals close thanks to the Trump administration’s disastrous tax policies. We need a general assembly that is laser focused on reducing costs in healthcare for all Virginians, including creating a separate fund to temporarily subsidize the Virginia-based healthcare exchanges.

Third, I support policies that invest in early childcare. I am a mother of three children. Investing in our nation’s and commonwealth’s future is critically important to growing our economy. Right now, childcare costs have increased threefold in the past few decades. Those kinds of rising costs are unsustainable for families. We need policies that aggressively invest in early childcare through local non-profits and expanded licensing and training for in-home community daycares.

Question #5: How will you work as a Delegate to bring more funding to our public schools in northern Virginia? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Carla Bustillos: As a Delegate, I will be a strong advocate for fully funding Virginia’s public schools, because a high-quality education should not depend on a family’s ZIP code. Northern Virginia contributes significantly to the Commonwealth’s economy, and our schools must receive their fair share of state support.

First, I support updating Virginia’s school funding formula to better reflect the true costs faced by local governments, including higher costs of living and staffing in Northern Virginia. The state should shoulder more of the responsibility so localities are not forced to cover an outsized share of education costs. I will also push for increased teacher pay to attract and retain talent, expanded funding for support staff, and sustained investments in special education services, and alternative education opportunities like apprenticeships and community college so every student gets the support they need to succeed.

Second, the General Assembly must think creatively about long-term funding. I support strategies such as earmarking a portion of new revenue generated from business attraction and economic development for targeted investments in math and literacy, early intervention, and evidence-based programs that improve student outcomes statewide.

Personally, I also know that strong schools are inseparable from strong families. When parents earn livable wages and have economic stability, students perform better, test scores rise, graduation rates improve, and more students pursue higher education. That’s why I will fight for policies that create good-paying jobs and support working families, ensuring our children have the foundation they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

Question #6: What is your position on a referendum for a proposed casino in the Tysons/Reston area? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Carla Bustillos: Major land-use and economic decisions should reflect the priorities and values of the people who live and work here, not be driven by outside interests.

As a Delegate, my responsibility is to listen first and represent my constituents. To date, I have not heard broad, community-backed support for bringing a casino to Tysons or Reston. Without clear buy-in from residents, workers, and local leaders, moving forward with a proposal of this scale would be the wrong approach.

Northern Virginia’s economic success has been built on smart, balanced growth such as investments in innovation, transit-oriented development, strong schools, and quality jobs that strengthen our communities without creating new social or economic harms. I believe our focus should remain on policies that lower costs for families, support small businesses, and improve quality of life, rather than introducing a casino that could increase congestion and place new strains on local resources.

If elected, I will continue to engage constituents transparently and ensure that any major development proposals are guided by community input, local needs, and long-term sustainability—not top-down decisions that leave residents behind.

Question #7: What is your position on passing campaign finance reform – including limits on corporate and individual donations? (Limit 250 words)

Response from Carla Bustillos: As someone of Venezuelan and Cuban descent, strengthening and protecting our democracy is one of my highest priorities. I have seen firsthand how fragile democratic institutions can be, and that perspective drives my strong support for meaningful campaign finance reform.

I believe our democracy is strongest when it is accessible to everyone—not just those with wealth or powerful connections. Running for office should be a real option for people from all backgrounds, and large corporate and individual donations should not have an outsized influence over our elections or public policy. Limiting that influence is essential to restoring trust and ensuring government is accountable to voters.

HD-17 is home to thousands of federal workers, contractors, and military families who deserve leaders that will defend democratic norms and public service. As a Delegate, I will protect federal workers from shutdowns and political attacks and push back against Trump-style policies that threaten public servants, immigrants, and working families.

I believe government should look like the people it serves. That means protecting and expanding voting access, upholding civil rights, strengthening ethics and transparency, and ensuring, immigrant and underrepresented communities have a real voice in our democracy while building trusted private-public partnerships to drive government efficiency.. Campaign finance reform is a critical part of that work, and I will fight for reforms that strengthen participation, fairness, and trust in Virginia’s elections.

[Note: The candidates were also asked whether they support or oppose constitutional amendments on repealing the same-sex-marriage ban, creating a right to reproductive freedom, allowing convicted felons to vote following release from incarceration, and redrawing congressional districts mid-decade. Carla Bustillos says she supports all four.]