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3 Newcomers, 1 Returner: How the Manassas School Board Election Fared

From left to right: Suzanne Seaberg, Zella Jones, Dayna Miles and Diana Brown won the 2024 School Board race in Manassas. [Courtesy photos]
Despite the congestion of the presidential election and national politics, there were several important local races that voters decided on last week, including the Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) Board.

In the race for four Board seats, the eight candidates ran spirited campaigns discussing a variety of issues, including absenteeism, standardized test scores, community engagement and the like.

The results

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Harris Outperforms Biden in Manassas City, Election Data Shows

Vice President Kamala Harris won each precinct in the City of Manassas in 2024.[Map by the Virginia Public Access Project]
Vice President Kamala Harris (D) outperformed — commanded a larger, more comfortable lead — President Joe Biden in Manassas City in the 2024 presidential election, gaining a higher percentage of the city's voters than Biden did in 2020.

According to the Virginia Public Access Project (VPAP), a nonpartisan nonprofit that provides accessible financial and campaign information for elections, in last week's presidential election — despite President-elect Donald Trump's performance in other Virginia counties and cities — the City of Manassas shifted more to the left, a trend not seen in many neighboring jurisdictions.

For example, Prince William County saw a shift to the right as Trump gained more votes in the county than he did in 2020. And, 124 out of Virginia's 133 counties shifted to the right compared to the 2020 election.

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New Leadership on the Horizon for Manassas Park

Mensing

Following the Tuesday, November 5, 2025, General Election, Manassas Park will see a new mayor and a fresh face on the city council. Democrat Alanna M. Mensing, who ran unopposed, will assume the mayoral role, succeeding outgoing Mayor Jeanette Rishell. Mensing received 83.87% of the vote, marking a significant shift as Rishell, mayor since 2016, did not seek re-election this year.

Mensing, who has been involved in city government, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She has served as Vice Mayor from 2022 to 2024 and has been a city council member since 2019. Additionally, she sits on the Manassas Park Planning Commission and previously served a term on the city’s school board. Outside of her public service, Mensing is a self-employed music teacher, offering lessons to local children and teaching piano at the Manassas Park Community Center from 2015 to 2020. She has resided in Manassas Park since 2009.

Rishell

Democrat-endorsed Stacy J. Seiberling, who received 22.53% of the votes, will join the council. She brings a strong background in public service and local involvement. Seiberling has been a Manassas Park resident since

1999, serving on the Manassas Park School Board and the city’s Social Services Committee. She also has extensive experience in IT solutions, government management, and project management and holds a PMP certification. As a council member, Seiberling intends to prioritize fiscal responsibility, improve government transparency, and focus on community-driven solutions.

Amaya

Returning to the council are two incumbents, Yesenia E. “Yesy” Amaya and Darryl G. Moore were re-elected. Amaya, originally from El Salvador, has been a Manassas Park resident since 2001. She brings business experience from owning and operating a bakery in Prince William County and an event venue with her sister. She captured 26.51% of the vote. Moore, a seasoned policy expert with 13 years in management with the Oakland Housing Authority and former Berkeley, California, city council member, garnered 26.25%.

Independent candidate Laura H. Hampton lost her re-election bid. Hampton, a lifelong Manassas Park resident, has served on the council since 2021. She is well-known for her advocacy work, including founding local initiatives like the Manassas Park Community Maintenance Group and Keep the Park Beautiful.

Hampton

This election ushers in a blend of continuity and new perspectives for Manassas Park. Mensing is poised to lead the city into its next chapter as mayor, and Seiberling is adding her expertise to the governing body. The new council will focus on local issues, aiming to make the city a better place to live and work.

Federal and state

Democrats kept their stronghold in Manassas Park as Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic candidates continued to secure significant leads over their Republican counterparts despite a stronger showing from former President Donald Trump in neighboring Prince William County.

Moore

In the Presidential race, Harris captured 58.57% of the vote in Manassas Park with 3,341 votes, while Trump followed with 38.50% and 2,196 votes. The outcome highlights the challenges Republicans face in gaining traction in this Democratic-leaning area, even as Trump’s performance across Prince William County showed marked improvement over previous years. According to the Virginia Public Access Project (VPAP), Trump narrowed the Democratic lead in Prince William County, winning 40% of the vote compared to his 36% share in 2020. Vice President Harris, meanwhile, won 57% of the county, a six-point drop from President Joe Biden’s 2020 win.

In the race for U.S. Senate, winning incumbent Democrat Tim Kaine maintained a comfortable lead, receiving 63.38% of the vote (3,545 votes) in Manassas Park. Republican challenger Hung Cao garnered 36.15% (2,022 votes). Kaine’s stronghold reflects the Democratic presence in this Senate seat and adds momentum for his party at the state level.

For the 10th District House of Representatives seat, Democratic candidate Suhas Subramanyam received 59.40% of the Manassas Park vote, totaling 3,281 votes. His Republican opponent, Mike Clancy, received 39.95%, or 2,207 votes. This demonstrates a similar trend to the Senate race, with Democratic support prevailing in the district. Subramanyam will replace the retiring Jennifer Wexton (D) who did not seek re-eleciton.

These results come amid a new alliance for local Republicans. In October, the Prince William County Republican Committee announced that it merged with the Manassas Park Republican Committee. The consolidation aims to strengthen the Republican base in Prince William County and Manassas Park as the party seeks to build on Trump’s gains.

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Anderson Concedes Congressional Race, Calls for Unity and Future Focus

Republican candidate Derrick Anderson officially conceded his race for Virginia’s 7th Congressional District on November 7, 2024.

His Democratic opponent, Eugene Vindman, claimed victory on Election Night, securing 50.94% of the vote in Prince William County compared to Anderson’s 48.79%. Prince William, the district’s most populous jurisdiction, played a crucial role in the outcome.

Anderson’s campaign focused heavily on voter outreach across the district, particularly in Prince William County. He noted his efforts to connect with voters in the area, saying his team “did well in Prince William” by visiting locations like Todos and other local businesses to address issues such as rising electricity costs. His strategy resonated strongly in precincts like Colgan and Quantico, where he led with 54.90% and 54.70% of the vote, respectively.

Vindman’s victory was aided by significant early voting support in Prince William County, where he received 66.88% of in-person early votes. Anderson thanked his supporters, acknowledging their dedication and hard work throughout the campaign. While disappointed by the results, Anderson conveyed pride in his efforts to address community concerns and optimism for the future of the 7th District.

Anderson emphasized unity and the importance of addressing the pressing concerns of local residents. In his address, Anderson reflected on his campaign, acknowledging the dedication of his volunteers and supporters. He thanked an extensive network of friends, family, and colleagues, underscoring the deep community ties that fueled his bid for office.

Anderson, who grew up in Spotsylvania County, shared his motivation for running: a commitment to improve the lives of those in his district. He recounted memories of mopping floors at his mother’s restaurant and wrestling at Courtland High School, moments that shaped his vision for service. “The seventh district is my home,” he said. “It’s where I began my journey that took me to the army and ultimately to run for Congress.”

While recounting his experiences and milestones, Anderson addressed the recent election process, noting the 11,000 provisional ballots still pending. However, with the current ballot count leaving no clear path to victory, he conceded, stating it was in the district’s best interest to move forward.

Reflecting on broader national concerns, Anderson outlined his expectations for Washington. He called for a secure border, fiscal responsibility, and support for the nation’s allies, asserting that the next administration should focus on citizens’ economic well-being. “People are ready for change,” he said, voicing the frustrations of those struggling with rising costs of living and security concerns.

In closing, Anderson urged the community to set aside partisan differences and work together, regardless of the campaign’s outcome. “While we can’t claim victory today, I’m asking everyone to come together, as one district, dedicated to looking after our fellow neighbors and focusing on a better future,” he concluded, leaving a message of hope and resilience for his supporters and constituents alike.

This was Anderson’s second bid for the congressional seat. He ran in a Republican Party Primary Election in 2022, and lost to Prince William County Supervisor Yesli Vega, who lost to Democrat Abigail Spanberger (D).

Spanberger, a three-term congresswoman, has hinted she will run against Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears in Virginia’s gubernatorial race in 2025 to replace Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R), who cannot seek re-election due to constitutionally imposed term limits.

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Local Reactions to Regional, National Election Results

With local Democratic victories and federal Republican victories, a large swath of elected officials and political groups took to X — formerly Twitter — to express gratitude, sadness and to celebrate.

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Support Local Journalism and Get Smarter About Our Community

We’re out here daily, covering the stories that matter to you and our region, including the recent election and its impact across Prince William County, Stafford, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg. It’s a fascinating time for local politics, and the election results show a shift in how our communities are engaging politically. Republicans made gains in areas that have been reliably Democratic, and there are implications as we head into a gubernatorial race next year.

In Prince William County, Kamala Harris lost nearly 7% of the votes Joe Biden won in 2020, which is a big deal in the state’s second-most-populated jurisdiction. In 2020, Biden won neighboring Stafford County by 2,600 votes, while Harris won in 2024 by just 275.

Understanding these changes isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about how these shifts will shape the future of our neighborhoods, schools, and local economies. We’re digging deep to ask what these results mean for our communities, what Democrats need to do to regain lost ground, and how Republicans plan to sustain momentum. These are stories you won’t find anywhere else, reported by people who know our area and care about its future.

This in-depth, ongoing political coverage is made possible through the support of readers like you. By upgrading to a paid membership, you’re investing in high-quality, local journalism that makes you smarter about the community where you live. We believe in asking the tough questions, covering the stories that impact your daily life, and giving you the insights you need to make informed decisions.

We need your support to continue this essential reporting. Upgrade today and become part of the story. Let’s continue building a community where everyone is informed and empowered.

Thank you for being a part of Potomac Local News.

Uriah Kiser
Founder and Publisher
Potomac Local News

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Congressman Gerry Connolly Diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer Following Election Victory

Just days after securing another ninth term in Congress, Representative Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly revealed he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer. The diagnosis came as a surprise to Connolly, who noted he had experienced only mild, intermittent abdominal aches and pains with no major symptoms. He shared the news in a heartfelt message to constituents, explaining his treatment plan, which includes chemotherapy and immunotherapy, set to begin immediately.

Connolly, a Democrat representing Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, won his November 5 election with a decisive 66.5% of the vote, totaling 250,962 ballots in his favor. His opponent, Republican Mike L. Van Meter, garnered 33.06% of the vote, with 124,780 votes. This victory marks another term for Connolly, who has been a prominent advocate for the people of Northern Virginia.

In his announcement, Connolly expressed confidence in his medical team and optimism about his prognosis. “Cancer can be tough. But so am I,” he said, promising to approach treatment “with Irish fight and humor.” While acknowledging that he might feel fatigued during treatment, he reassured constituents of his commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities in the district and Capitol Hill.

Connolly previously represented eastern Prince William County until 2022, when it was redistricted. As part of the decennial redistricting process, Prince William County was split into the 7th and 10th congressional districts, limiting Connolly’s representation to Fairfax County.

In his message, Connolly thanked his family, friends, and supporters for their encouragement, expressing that their love and support would sustain him during this challenging time. He emphasized his privilege to serve and his dedication to continuing his work while undergoing treatment.

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Opinion: As Republicans Gain Ground, Manassas Democrats Must Learn to Govern for All

The 2024 election results for Manassas signal a shift in the city’s political landscape.

While Democratic Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger retained her seat with a notable 56.91% of the vote, Republicans have made meaningful inroads, building on a newfound organizational strength seen across the state as conservatives embraced Virginia’s early voting system in record numbers. In what has become one of the city’s most contentious elections in recent memory, conservatives leveraged social media and new voices, such as the “Until They Kick Us Out” podcast, to rally supporters and draw attention to their causes. The Republican Party’s increased cohesion and visibility hint at a changing dynamic in a city once considered solidly Democratic.

This year’s council race underscores this shift. In 2020, Democratic incumbents Pamela Sebesky and Mark Wolfe received strong backing, with Sebesky leading with 20.7% (8,532 votes) and Wolfe close behind.

This year’s City Council results paint a different picture: not a single candidate reached the high vote totals of 2020. With Democratic candidates Ashley R. Hutson, Tom C. Osina, and Wolfe each earning lower percentages than before, it’s clear that voter support has become more dispersed. Sebesky did not seek re-election. This suggests a competitive landscape where no candidate has a guaranteed stronghold, pointing to an increasingly divided electorate.

In a shift for the Manassas City School Board, Republican-backed candidate Dayna-Marie Miles will now join conservative board member Sara Brescia, who has been a vocal presence since her election in 2022. Miles’ election signals a potential shift in policy focus and priorities on the school board as it navigates pressing challenges of accreditation, truancy, failing test scores, and teacher retention.

This election cycle wasn’t just competitive; it was particularly nasty. In the heat of the campaign, text messages allegedly exchanged between former Manassas Regional Airport Commission Chairman Ross Snare, Mayor Davis-Younger, and a city employee were publicly shared, with disparaging remarks directed at a council member. This so-called “text-gate” led to Snare’s resignation and fueled the polarized political atmosphere, where even those not running for office felt the repercussions.

The controversy around “text-gate” highlights a broader issue in Manassas politics: a hyper-partisan environment that has emerged since 2020. Democrats in city leadership have largely appointed like-minded individuals to board and commission positions and fill vacant council seats. For some residents, this has led to feelings of alienation. Many have chastised Mayor Davis-Younger for seeming to dismiss or avoid engaging with perspectives that don’t align with her own, creating an atmosphere where dissenting voices feel marginalized.

We at Potomac Local News have criticized the mayor for personalizing politics, valuing positive press, and maintaining control over her narrative. While Mayor Davis-Younger frequently uses the phrase “Our Manassas” to promote unity, that unity often seems conditional—extended only to those who support her leadership.

Her continued reluctance to grant a sit-down interview to Potomac Local News, despite our repeated requests since 2019, is a testament to her aversion to critical coverage. However, she recently promised to give us her first interview post-reelection. If she honors this commitment, it could signal a readiness to engage more openly with the press and residents with differing viewpoints.

The inroads Republicans have made this election should be a wake-up call for Manassas Democrats. With conservatives gaining ground across the city and state, it’s clear that the electorate has been evolving since President Donald Trump’s first term when Democrats posted significant gains in local and state-level offices.

For those in power, governing solely for a base of loyal supporters may no longer be sufficient—or sustainable. As seen in the City Council race, no single candidate can now assume widespread support and future victories will likely depend on a broader coalition.

Democrats in Manassas must recognize the changing political landscape and adapt by genuinely embracing diverse perspectives and governing the entire community. In Virginia’s annual election cycle, political tides can shift quickly, and the lessons of 2024 should serve as a reminder that leadership, inclusivity, and responsiveness to all constituents—not just loyalists—are essential in a city as dynamic as Manassas.

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Vindman Leads Anderson by 12,750 Votes in Tight Virginia 7th District Race, But Anderson Says “Too Close to Call”

Vindman / Anderson

In Virginia’s highly contested 7th Congressional District race, Democratic candidate Eugene S. Vindman currently leads Republican Derrick M. Anderson by a narrow 12,750 votes, with Vindman tallying 152,136 votes to Anderson’s 139,386.

However, Anderson’s campaign has emphasized that the race remains undecided, with significant numbers of ballots still uncounted and Orange County’s Election Day results not yet published.

“Simply put, like so many other races across the country, this race remains too close to call,” Anderson stated. “And like many other races across the country, it has not been called by any major media outlet. The reality is that there are thousands of outstanding ballots to count. In fact, according to the VA Dept. of Elections, Orange County hasn’t published any Election Day votes.”

We told you last night that Vindman declared victory. 

In Orange County, so far, Vindman captured 4,174 votes, or 42.74%, while Anderson received 5,569 votes, or 57.02%. Anderson’s campaign expects the final tally here could play a significant role in the district’s outcome. “Many of those ballots will be counted today,” Anderson added. “Our team is deploying out to canvasses across all 11 localities in VA07 to get an accurate read on all the votes outstanding.”

The breakdown of votes in other counties shows Prince William County delivered the highest number of votes to Vindman, with 74,834 compared to Anderson’s 38,512. In Culpeper County, however, Anderson claimed a substantial lead, capturing 17,335 votes to Vindman’s 10,349. Other counties, including Spotsylvania and Greene, followed similar trends, with Anderson leading in more rural areas while Vindman garnered stronger support in urban and suburban regions.

The campaign also noted that the Virginia Department of Elections has a Friday deadline for voters to cure ballots that were rejected for various reasons. “We will be working hard to ensure that every vote is counted,” Anderson said, urging voters whose ballots were initially rejected to take action before the deadline.

Anderson criticized a local media entity for what he described as “misinformation” after an incorrect race call led to confusion. “To be exceedingly clear: this media entity gave Virginia voters misinformation at a critical point during an election,” he said. “We ask that, given the amount of misinformation already going around today, any outlet with questions please reach out to us immediately.”

As final counts and cures continue, both campaigns remain vigilant, with Anderson’s team actively tracking remaining ballots across the district’s 11 localities to ensure every vote is accounted for.

More as we have it.

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