The role of a Delegate is very similar to that of a Senator: we both introduce and vote on legislation, serve on various boards and commissions, and provide constituent services. Some key differences are that Delegates represent a much smaller area than Senators, which means there are many more of them, 100 Delegates compared to 40 Senators. Another difference is the length of service: Delegates serve two-year terms, while Senators serve four-year terms.

The House of Delegates has a prestigious history as one of the oldest standing legislatures in the world. It was founded back in 1619 as the House of Burgesses. This body is steeped in history and has counted many of the nation’s most important leaders as alumni.

Importantly, a flip in the House would be massive in determining what laws we can advance, and, just as critically, what harmful legislation we can stop. I have spoken often about the bad bills that Governor Youngkin has had to veto. If Republicans were to gain the House, we could prevent much of that legislation from even reaching a future Republican or Democratic Governor. Furthermore, flipping the House would allow us to block constitutional amendments being pushed by Democrats. These amendments include the radical abortion amendment, which can only be stopped with a Republican-led House.

Another critical aspect of Republican House leadership is the ability to decide who chairs committees. This is especially important with the Appropriations Committee, which reviews the budget, votes on which items to include in the budget, and evaluates all bills with a fiscal impact. Having Republican control of this committee would give us great leverage, particularly if we also have a Republican Governor, because Democrats would have to work with us on tax cuts and budget priorities.

Although our area is relatively safe for our Republican Delegates, that does not mean our local races don’t matter. The stronger our Delegates perform locally, the more they can help other candidates and support our statewide ticket. In Virginia, we are blessed with elections every single year, and every year we hear that “this is the most important election yet.” But this year, that statement is true. We can continue building on the great work of the Youngkin-Sears administration, or we can step back and risk becoming the next Maryland or California.

It is important for a Senator to have a good working relationship with their local Delegates, and we are extremely fortunate to have such a strong group representing Southside Virginia. Delegate Danny Marshall was one of the most helpful people when I was first learning the ins and outs of the General Assembly, and Delegate Phillips has always been a great counterpart whom I can lean on for advice. Their guidance has meant a great deal to me. I also have a long-standing history with Delegate Tommy Wright, going all the way back to when I helped him in his very first House of Delegates race after Frank Ruff moved on to the Senate. Most recently, I even helped him out during COVID as his legislative aide.

Southside is blessed with dedicated leaders, and I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished together. While I am sad to see Delegate Danny Marshall retire, I have every confidence that Madison Whittle will do a fantastic job and work tirelessly every day to serve our communities and build on Delegate Marshall’s legacy.

Early voting starts next week, Friday, September 19th. You can vote in person at your local registrar's office or by absentee ballot. If you need to find out where to vote, you can go to the Department of Elections website, or feel free to give me or my staff a call.

My staff and I are always here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at

[email protected]