With the passing of Rep. Donald McEachin last year, Virginian’s in the 4th Congressional District will head to the polls to select a new representative in the upcoming special election, which will be held on Tuesday, February 21st. Democratic State Senator Jennifer McClellan will face off against Republican Leon Benjamin, who has ran for the seat in the past two election cycles. Below is some background on the candidates and their positions on the issues:
Leon Benjamin Sr.
Party: Republican
Education: Graduate of Huguenot High School in Richmond City.
Work Experience: After high school, Leon Benjamin served in the US Navy (1986-1994) and fought in the Gulf War. Afterwards, Leon Benjamin served as pastor for New Life Harvest Church, where he has been an active preacher. Benjamin also founded the Coalition of Leaders United (CLU), a non profit organization.
Below are items on Benjamin’s legislative agenda (per campaign website):
- Address Political Division
- Restore Energy Independence through increased oil production. tackling regulations
- Additional police funding/resources to address crime
- More school choice for parents
Visit Leon Benjamin’s campaign website to learn more about his policy positions.
Jennifer McClellan
Party: Democratic
Education: University of Richmond (B.A), University of Virginia Law School (J.D)
Work Experience: McClellan has worked as an attorney for Verizon as a general counsel and at Hunton & Williams as an associate. According to Ballotpedia, she has served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2006 to 2017, and currently represents District 9 in the Virginia State Senate since 2017.
Below are items on McClellan’s legislative agenda (per campaign website):
- Expand access to birth control and reproductive services
- Reduce gun violence via comprehensive gun reform
- Advocate for more education funding and improve access to childcare
- Address climate change through government investment
Visit McClennan’s campaign website to learn more about her policy positions.
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