"Under this proposal -- which has a very good chance of resembling the final map -- my district would become ten points redder than in 2020," penned Wexton in a fundraising email Thursday.Prince William County Brentsville District Supervisor Jeanine Lawson is one of five Republicans looking to unseat Wexton in what will likely be a June 2020 Primary Election. Lawson told PLN she'd stay the course.
"My heart has always been in 10th, I've made a commitment to the voters and donors for the 10th, and I will see it through," Lawson said.Congress members aren't required to live in the District they serve. Manassas City Councilwoman Theresa Ellis said she'll now run for the District 7 seat.
Based upon the proposed district maps, as I have always promised, I intend to run in the District where I reside, built my business, raised my children and am an elected Councilwoman. At this time, the proposed maps shifted our lines and I am moving my campaign into the 7th U.S. Congressional District.Democrats eye District 7 seat However, political insiders say the proposed changes will result in a host of candidates clamoring to mount a 2022 campaign for the shifted District 7 seat. This morning, Prince William County School Board Chairman Dr. Babur Lateef said he's considering a run.
Thank you to all the constituents from across Prince William County who have reached out this evening to encourage me to run for the new congressional seat. I have been proud to serve as the School Board Chair of this incredible community and deliver tangible results for our students, teachers, and families. I am going to explore my candidacy for the 7th Congressional District and put in my due diligence as I do with all major decisions in life. If I do run, it will be to continue my work advancing opportunities for all in our community. As a doctor, small business owner, and public education champion, I do believe I have unique perspectives that could help our region and our commonwealth in Congress.Lateef said he would make a final decision "shortly." Earlier this year, the Democrat withdrew his bid for Virginia's Lt. Governor position, which Winsome Sears will hold on January 15. She will become the first woman and first black person to have the job. Political insiders expect a host of other Democrats to make a bid for the congressional seat. We'll post their announcements here.
Compared to the existing district maps, the newly proposed District 7 seat in the House of Delegates District 2 seat on steroids. The current District 2 seat includes eastern Prince William County and northern Stafford County portions. Competitive overall, Prince William County Democrats have dominated the seat held by Delegate Candi King in recent years. Stafford County, however, is more reliable for Republicans., who say they'll put up a fight in the newly proposed 7th District, said Virginia Republican Party Chairman Richard Anderson:I am humbled by the calls I've received encouraging me to run for Congress.
Our next representative needs to be able to deliver for our families, kids, and communities. I am seriously considering a run in the new 7th District, and plan to make a decision in the coming weeks. -- Jeremy McPike (@JeremyMcPike) December 9, 2021
The new 7th Congressional District is merely notional until approved by the Supreme Court of Virginia. Its final configuration will be one in which Republicans will fight and win against any and all odds. This time last year, I vowed that Virginia Republicans would win all three statewide offices and flip the House of Delegates in a Republican clean sweep. We did precisely that and will do it again in the 7th and several other districts to give Virginia a Republican majority in our delegation to the U.S. House.Back-to-back campaigns for House of Delegates members? The new maps also have implications for members and soon-to-be members of the Virginia House of Delegates. With so many political districts shifted under the newly proposed maps, some say Delegates, who just competed in the November 3 General Election, may have to mount a new campaign in 2022 to keep their seats. Under the proposal, mapmakers split Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park across six House of Delegates Districts; all re-numbered 19 to 25. Mapmakers split Stafford County between three districts. District 23 includes the northern portion of the county and a portion of eastern Prince William County (resembling the current House District 2 seat). Proposed Districts 65 and 64 contain southern Stafford County, Fredericksburg city, and central Stafford County, respectively. On November 3, Republican Tara Durant flipped the current District 28 seat (south Stafford, Fredericksburg city) from Democrat Joshua Cole in a significant election. The candidates spent millions during the campaign, making it one of the most expensive races during the off-year election. State Senate Districts shift A newly-proposed map for the Virginia Senate shows the District 29 seat in Prince William County, held by Democrat Jeremy McPike, shifting slightly south to include a portion of Stafford County. Mapmakers shifted the District 36 seat held by Democrat Scott Surovell southeastern Fairfax to the western portion of the county, removing the parts of Prince William and Stafford counties included in the District since 2010. Under the proposed maps, the District 30 seat, now held by Democrat Adam Ebbin of Alexandria, moves to western Prince William County. The District 33 seat held by Democrat Jennifer Boysko, parts of Loudoun and Fairfax counties, shifts to southeastern Fairfax and northern Woodbridge in Prince William County (replacing a portion of the current District 36 seat held by Surovell). The 27th District Senate Seat held by Republican Jill Vogel, which spans the area between Winchester and Fauquier County, will shift east to include the southern portion of Stafford County and Fredericksburg. Under the new proposal, the District 28 seat held by Richard Stuart of Westmoreland will shift to southern Fauquier County, Culpeper, and Orange. How we got here In November, the Virginia Supreme Court stepped in to oversee the drawing of new maps. In November 2020, voters created a bi-partisan commission to redraw the state's political districts. Commissioners abandoned their task this fall after months of infighting. The State Supreme Court will accept public comments on the new maps via email at [email protected]. State law requires political districts redrawn every 10 years to reflect population changes. The coronavirus delayed the new maps, which were due last year.
Recent Stories
The “Souper Bowl” returns to Historic Downtown Manassas for First Friday on February 7, 2025, with a sold-out crowd ready to sample soups from top local restaurants. Attendees will explore downtown, tasting a diverse selection of soups—from classic Tomato Basil Bisque to bold Pork Belly Ramen and Cocoa Cloud Dessert Soup—served at various businesses. Participants will vote for their favorite, crowning one soup the ultimate winner. With new contenders and returning favorites, the event promises a flavorful journey. Missed out this year? Stay tuned for next year’s Souper Bowl and more exciting First Friday events in Manassas.
Award-winning brand Always Flavored is relocating across the street from 610 to 619 Caroline St., with plans to open by March 31, 2025. The move allows for an expanded selection of hot sauces, seasonings, and gourmet products, plus tastings and events.
The announcement comes as the brand celebrates recent award wins:
Ritabeata’s Mild Sauce – 2nd place (International Flavor Awards)
Peri Peri Sauce – 3rd place (2025 Scovie Awards)
A grand opening celebration is planned.
In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Craig Wade, President of the Prince William Association of Realtors, and Matthew Rathbun, President-Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors. They discuss the latest trends in the local real estate market, the impact of rising interest rates, and the challenges first-time homebuyers face in Northern Virginia.
The conversation also dives into the region’s housing inventory, with insights on the growing demand for homes and the lack of affordable options, especially in areas like Prince William, Fredericksburg, and Stafford. Craig and Matthew share their predictions for 2025, the future of smart growth, and the importance of balancing development with affordability.
Looking for a furry friend who can steal your heart? Look no further than Chloe, the 5-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, waiting for her forever home at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.
Chloe isn’t just any dog—she’s an Italian superstar in livestock protection, with a personality as impressive as her heritage. This lovable lady may have a calm and gentle demeanor, but don’t let her laid-back attitude fool you—she’s a heart-stealer extraordinaire!
Chloe is ready to charm her way into your home, and she’s patiently waiting for someone special to give her the love she deserves. Are you ready to make room for Chloe in your life?
Visit the Prince William County Animal Shelter today to meet Chloe and other wonderful animals available for adoption. For more information or to contact the shelter, visit www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services. Don’t wait—come see Chloe today, and you might just find your new best friend!
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
