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.
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.
Updated 1 a.m, November 6, 2024 — The race for Virginia’s U.S. Senate seat remains closely watched, with updated numbers showing incumbent Senator Tim Kaine in the lead:
– Tim Kaine (D): 52.43% (1,833,594 votes)
– Hung Cao (R): 47.57% (1,663,630 votes)
Currently, 2,050 of 2,536 precincts have reported, and an estimated 885,261 early votes are still outstanding, which could impact the final outcome.
Virginia’s 7th and 10th Congressional Districts
The race for Virginia’s 7th Congressional District has concluded, with all precincts reporting:
Vindman declared victory, releasing this statement via email:
Eugene Vindman
With the support of our grassroots army, we accomplished something together that many didn’t think was possible. It’s a testament to the power of the American experience, that an immigrant who escaped a Soviet Regime and came to this great nation with less than $800 in our pockets, would now stand here as a Congressman-elect of the United States House of Representatives. Thank you to my incredible wife Cindy, our two wonderful kids Max and Madi, and of course my less handsome twin Alex.”
In my 25 years of military service, and when we were jumping out of airplanes, it didn’t matter to me the color creed, background, race, or party affiliation of the person next to me. What mattered was getting the mission done. That’s the type of service I am going to take to Washington as the next Congressman from Virginia’s 7th Congressional District.
All votes have been counted in Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, showing a lead for Democrat Suhas Subramanyam:
Suhas Subramanyam (D): 51.91% (206,621 votes)
Mike Clancy (R): 47.72% (189,946 votes)
“I am honored and humbled that the people of Virginia’s 10th District put their trust in me to take on the toughest fights and deliver results in Congress. This district is my home. I got married here, my wife Miranda and I are raising our daughters here, and the issues our community faces are personal to our family. It is an honor to continue serving this district in Washington,” Subramanyam posted to Twitter.
Manassas City Results
With five of six precincts reporting, the race for key positions in Manassas is nearing completion as candidates compete for mayoral, city council, and school board seats.
Manassas Mayoral Race
– E. Michelle Davis-Younger: Leads with 56.98% (7,741 votes).
– Xiao-Yin “Tang” Byrom**: Trails with 42.69% (5,799 votes).
– Write-In**: Accounts for 0.33% (45 votes).
Manassas City Council
The top three candidates poised to secure seats on the council are:
– Mark D. Wolfe: 19.35% (6,996 votes)
– Ashley R. Hutson: 18.52% (6,699 votes)
– Tom C. Osina: 16.40% (5,931 votes)
Close contenders include Robyn R. Williams (15.53%), Lynn Forkell Greene (15.27%), and Stephen D. Kent (14.67%), with write-ins making up 0.25% (92 votes).
Manassas School Board
The top four finishers in the school board race are:
– Suzanne Seaberg: 14.62% (6,317 votes)
– Diana Ivette Brown: 14.04% (6,063 votes)
– Zella M. Jones: 13.55% (5,851 votes)
– Dayna-Marie Miles: 13.06% (5,639 votes)
Additional candidates include A. R. “Allie” Forkell (12.53%), Javanese M. Hailey (12.44%), Maidy M. Whitesell (12.38%), and Christina S. Brooks (7.10%), with write-ins totaling 0.29% (124 votes).
These results reflect near-final standings, with only one precinct left to report. Potomac Local News will continue to track the final tallies as they come in.
CORRECTED Final Results: Manassas Park Mayoral and City Council Races
The latest and final tallies for the Manassas Park elections are in, showing decisive outcomes for both the mayoral and city council seats, all Democrats.
Mayor of Manassas Park
– Alanna M. Mensing: Won overwhelmingly with 83.78% (4,029 votes).
– Write-In Candidates: Accounted for 16.22% (780 votes).
All precincts have reported, with no early votes left to count.
### Manassas Park City Council
The top three candidates who have secured seats on the Manassas Park City Council are:
– Yesenia E. “Yesy” Amaya: 26.46% (2,739 votes)
– Darryl G. Moore: 26.26% (2,718 votes)
– Stacy J. Seiberling: 22.54% (2,333 votes)
Laura H. Hampton closely followed with 21.98% (2,275 votes) but did not secure a seat.
These results mark the final standings in Manassas Park. Potomac Local News will provide further updates if statements or additional analysis are released by the elected officials.
Town of Dumfries Council
In Dumfries, incumbents Brian K. Fields and Shaun R. Peet retain their seats, joined by newcomer Ebony E. Lofton. The final tallies are:
– Brian K. Fields: 25.60% (553 votes)
– Shaun R. Peet: 25.60% (553 votes)
– Ebony E. Lofton: 24.31% (525 votes)
Town of Haymarket Results
– Mayor: Tracy Lynn Pater, running unopposed, won with 96.47% (410 votes).
– Town Council: The top six finishers securing seats are Mary A. Ramirez (18.14%), Matthew J. Gallagher (15.03%), Joseph R. “Joe” Pasanello (14.84%), Kenneth M. “Ken” Luersen (13.81%), Justin L. Baker (13.50%), and Alexander M. Beyene (12.52%).
Town of Quantico Results
Quantico Election Results: Community Elects Mayor and Town Council
The residents of the Town of Quantico have cast their votes, finalizing the leadership for the upcoming term. The election saw competitive races for both Mayor and Town Council.
Mayor’s Race
Kevin P. Brown emerged as Mayor with 66.45% of the vote (103 votes). Write-in candidates accounted for 33.55% (52 votes), showcasing a spirited race.
Town Council Results
Quantico’s Town Council election allowed voters to select up to five candidates. Here are the official results, highlighting the top five who secured seats on the council:
Voters stand in line to cast their ballots at a DMV in Woodbridge.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) will deploy federal monitors to observe elections in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park on Election Day. These monitors will focus on ensuring local compliance with federal voting laws, specifically related to accessibility for voters with disabilities and the availability of language assistance.
Susan Reed, the Voter Registrar for Manassas, confirmed the DOJ’s involvement, stating, “DOJ has contacted me and have agreed to allow DOJ to monitor the precincts. The DOJ monitored right after Manassas City was language required several years ago. The DOJ’s focus is ensuring localities are making progress with ADA and language requirements. I have had positive feedback and also helpful suggestions from them. The DOJ’s monitors are doing their job to ensure federal laws are being followed, and Manassas City wants to adhere to federal law.”
Eric Olsen, the Director of Elections and General Registrar for Prince William County, noted that DOJ monitoring is not new to the area. “The Dept. of Justice has had monitors in several counties around the state, including Prince William County, for several recent general elections. They are generally focused on compliance with federal laws such as ADA and language assistance, so this isn’t anything new,” Olsen explained. “Their feedback is generally helpful, and we want to make sure we are compliant with all federal laws. DOJ has had monitors at polling places for many elections I have been a part of in MD, DC, and VA over the last 14 years. They must comply with the same observation rules that partisan and international observers must adhere to.”
Monitoring Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park is part of a broader DOJ initiative to oversee compliance with federal voting rights laws in 86 jurisdictions nationwide on Election Day.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division will coordinate the effort, deploying personnel from multiple divisions, including the Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney’s Offices, and federal observers from the Office of Personnel Management. Throughout Election Day, DOJ representatives will contact state and local election officials to address potential issues.
The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section enforces federal statutes designed to protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, and various Civil Rights Acts. The division’s Disability Rights Section ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), guaranteeing full and equal voting access for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the Criminal Section enforces statutes against voter intimidation and suppression based on race, color, national origin, or religion.
On Election Day, the public can report potential voting rights violations directly to DOJ personnel. Complaints can be filed through the department’s website at civilrights.justice.gov or by calling 800-253-3931.
On Friday, November 1, at 1 p.m., Manassas Park City held its annual Veterans Flag Ceremony outside City Hall, paying tribute to the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Led by the Manassas Park Honor Guard, the event commenced with reverence and respect as the American Legion Post 10’s Color Guard presented the colors, marking the beginning of a solemn yet celebratory occasion.
Interim City Manager Keith Nguyen welcomed attendees. Alisha Morka’s rendition of the national anthem followed as voices joined in unison to celebrate the freedoms the veterans fought to protect.
A significant moment in the ceremony came as Commissioner Charles Ziegler, the Virginia Department of Veterans Services commissioner, took the stage. A retired Navy veteran with 31 years of service, Ziegler spoke poignantly about veterans’ sacrifices and the American flag’s enduring symbolism. “The American flag has been the symbol of our nation’s unity, as well as a source of pride and inspiration for millions of citizens,” he remarked. “Every pledge of allegiance we take, and every flag-raising we witness is a celebration, and it honors the deeper meaning of how we live our lives and what we believe.”
Reflecting on the origins of the Pledge of Allegiance, Ziegler emphasized the importance of patriotism and unity in today’s world, drawing a parallel to historical efforts to instill loyalty and respect for the nation. “With all the distractions that we have today, how many of us think about patriotism?” he asked the crowd. “The raising of our flag and our pledge of allegiance embodies patriotism, sacrifice, devotion, security, and loyalty.”
The Honor Guard formally raised the veterans flag, followed by remarks from Constantine Ferssizidis, Board Member of the Northern Virginia Veterans Association, and Josh Himan, a combat-injured Marine and Hylton High School graduate. Himan shared his personal story, highlighting his journey from civilian life to the Marine Corps and his experiences in Afghanistan, where he sustained severe injuries. He credited the support of Semper Fi & America’s Fund with helping him and his family through his recovery. “They were always with me from the very beginning,” he said. “I’m proud to say that Semper Fi has grown to help all branches, supporting over 33,000 veterans across this nation.”
Councilmember Laura Hampton offered a local perspective, sharing stories of veterans from the Manassas area and underscoring their essential role in the community. “Veterans are the very lifeblood of a thriving and vibrant community,” Hampton stated, adding, “The best way to honor veterans’ service is to speak their names, share their stories, and remember their contributions to our country.” She recounted a meeting with local veterans, including Harry Humphrey, a Vietnam veteran who served in the 293rd Engineer Battalion Transportation Company. She called it an honor to witness and share their legacy.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Nguyen, who expressed deep gratitude to all veterans present and nationwide. “As we gather here today, may we continue to honor and support those who served and remember that the freedoms we enjoy are owed to their sacrifices,” he stated.
The Manassas Park Veterans Flag Ceremony poignantly reminds the city of its dedication to honoring its veterans, recognizing their contributions to national security and their integral role in the community. In Manassas Park and Prince William County, veterans make up a significant part of the population, strengthening local businesses, enriching community values, and shaping future generations with their resilience and service.
Stafford County voters wait to cast absentee in-person ballots before the November 5, 2024 General Election.
As early voting continues across the area, the voter turnout for 2024 reflects shifts in participation compared to previous election cycles, with mixed trends between mail-in and in-person ballots.
Manassas Park Overview
Patricia Brendel, the Director of Elections for Manassas Park, provided data showing a decrease in mail-in ballots from the 2020 presidential election, attributing the drop to the heightened demand for mail-in voting due to COVID-19 restrictions in 2020.
Despite this, in-person voting turnout has been robust. With increased opportunities for early, no-excuse voting, in-person turnout remains stronger than in 2016.
– 2016 In-Person Early Voting: 752
– 2020 In-Person Early Voting: 2,718
– 2024 In-Person Early Voting (as of 10/28): 1,894
Brendel anticipates a strong turnout on Election Day itself, potentially surpassing 2020’s 1,618-voter turnout in the election-day precincts.
Stafford County Trends
Stafford County also shows a solid early voting response, though, like Manassas Park, numbers remain below 2020 levels. General Registrar Anna Hash reports that 23,777 residents have voted early in person as of yesterday, while 7,113 mail-in ballots have been returned.
Although specific comparative figures from 2020 are unavailable, Hash maintains that turnout levels indicate healthy voter engagement.
As the 2024 election approaches, both counties are preparing for continued voter activity. Election Day turnout could potentially close the gap in 2020 figures.
We also asked Prince William County, Manassas, and Fredericksburg cities and will post information from those locations upon receipt.
Election Day is in one week, Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
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As the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) heads into 2025, its proposed budget reflects its challenges and opportunities in a post-COVID world. The budget discussed at the October 18, 2024, Operations Board meeting outlines plans to support ridership recovery, maintain reliable service, and position VRE for future growth as a regional rail provider.
VRE, like many public transit systems, saw a significant decline in ridership during the pandemic. However, the 2025 budget aims to address passengers’ slow but steady recovery by investing in enhanced service offerings and critical infrastructure projects. These efforts are intended to transform VRE from a commuter-focused system to a broader regional transportation network.
Ridership Recovery Post-COVID
Ridership recovery has been gradual, with VRE reporting an 8% year-over-year passenger increase as of October 2024. The Fredericksburg and Manassas lines have both seen this growth, though levels remain below pre-pandemic numbers. The shift in work patterns, with many commuters embracing hybrid or remote work models, has altered the demand for peak-hour train services.
In September 2024, the VRE saw an average daily ridership of 6,662 passengers, increasing from 6,031 in August 2024 to 6,316 in September 2023. This reflects a positive trend in ridership recovery post-COVID, with the total monthly ridership for September 2024 reaching 133,247 passengers, up from 126,328 during the previous month.
The system saw 20,000 riders per day before COVID-19.
“We’re seeing some recovery in ridership, but not the big step increases we had hoped for,” said Rich Dalton, VRE’s CEO, during the meeting. “Instead, it’s been a gradual climb, and we need to adapt to this new normal.”
In response, VRE’s 2025 budget will focus on maintaining existing services while expanding into new markets, including off-peak and reverse-commute services. This move is part of VRE’s long-term strategy to attract new riders beyond traditional commuters, particularly those traveling for leisure or reverse commutes into Northern Virginia.
Expanding Service, Supporting Infrastructure
A key component of VRE’s strategy for ridership recovery and growth is service expansion. The 2025 budget proposes investments in improving infrastructure to support these new service offerings. Projects such as the Long Bridge expansion, the addition of a fourth track at key locations, and upgrades at several stations, including Quantico, are designed to increase capacity and improve service reliability.
“We’re not just looking to return to pre-COVID ridership levels,” Dalton explained. “We’re looking to expand and serve new communities, ensuring VRE becomes a key part of the regional transportation network.”
These infrastructure improvements, including track upgrades and station enhancements, will be critical in supporting VRE’s push to offer more flexible services. For example, the Quantico station upgrades, set to be completed in November 2024, are part of a broader effort to modernize key stations and improve passenger experience.
Budgeting for Growth
To fund these initiatives, VRE is using a mix of federal pandemic relief funds and local contributions. However, these funds are set to run out by fiscal year 2028, adding pressure on VRE to secure new funding sources. The proposed budget includes approximately $30 to $40 million in pandemic relief funds for the next few years. Still, as these resources are exhausted, VRE will need additional support from state and local jurisdictions.
The Operations Board discussed the need to continue advocating for state and federal funding through programs like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and finding creative solutions to meet future funding needs. VRE is also participating in discussions as part of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s ongoing study (SJ 28) to explore sustainable funding solutions for the state’s transit systems.
“We can’t rely on local jurisdictions alone to cover the gap once the relief funds run out,” said Mark Schofield, VRE’s Chief Financial Officer. “We’re actively engaging in conversations at the state level to ensure that transit funding solutions are identified and implemented in time to avoid service cuts.”
Looking Forward
As VRE continues to recover from the impacts of COVID-19, the 2025 budget reflects the system’s dual priorities: stabilizing operations and preparing for future growth. While ridership remains below pre-pandemic levels, VRE’s focus on expanding services, improving infrastructure, and securing long-term funding will be critical to ensuring its success in the years to come.
The 2025 budget proposal will be refined in the coming months before final approval by the Operations Board, with ongoing adjustments made to address both ridership trends and funding opportunities. As Northern Virginia continues to grow, VRE is positioning itself as an essential part of the region’s future transportation landscape, ready to adapt to changing demands and serve a broader range of passengers.
VRE provides commuter rail service from the Northern Virginia suburbs to Alexandria, Crystal City and downtown Washington, D.C., along the Interstate 66 and I-95 corridors.
Prince William County’s Fire Department is hosting an all-county safety expo. [Photo by Craig Adderley via Pexels]Prince William County Fire and Rescue Services is hosting an All-County Public Safety Expo on Saturday at Pfitzner Stadium (7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge) from noon to 5 p.m.
There will be several different special guests, performances, challenges and local agencies present at the expo. Read more below for the event schedule.
Schedule
Noon to 12:10 p.m.:Â Opening ceremony (Ball Field 2)
12:10 to 12:35 p.m.:Â Prince William County Pipes & Drums
1 to 1:30 p.m.:Â Woodbridge High School Marching Band
1:30 to 2 p.m.:Â Make the Right Call Presentation
2 to 2:30 p.m.:Â Manassas Park High School Drum Line
2:30 to 3 p.m.:Â Egg Drop Challenge (Demo Alley)
3 to 3:30 p.m.:Â Vehicle Extrication
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.:Â School of Rock Haymarket House Band (Courtyard)
Exhibitors
FIRE & RESCUE
PWC Fire & Rescue System
Fire Marshal’s Office
HAZMAT
Life & Fire Safety Programs
Office of Emergency Management
Department of Fire & Rescue CPAT/Human Resources Office
City of Manassas Fire & Rescue Department
Manassas Park Fire & Rescue Department
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Prince William County Police Department
Prince William County Sheriff’s Office
Manassas Park Police Department
Town of Haymarket Police Department
Town of Occoquan Police Department
Quantico Police Department
Dumfries Police Department
Virginia State Police
LOCAL & REGIONAL AGENCIES
AirCare 1 (PHI Air Medical Manassas)
Department of Forestry
Virginia Forestry
Civil Air Patrol
Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital
Prince William District Scouts
Prince William County Community Foundation
NOVA Food Rescue
PWC Animal Services
Saving Prince William’s Littles
Area Agency on Aging
PWC Public Safety Communications 911
Office of Executive Management
Human Rights Commission
Community Services Wellness & Prevention
Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court Seals on Wheels
PWC Building Development Building Code Enforcement
Prince William Public Libraries’ Mobile Library Unit
