Wait... You're a... Democrat..?

Since I announced my run for Virginia's House of Delegates, that's the question I hear most often. Around here in rural Bedford County, it usually comes with a raised eyebrow—and honestly, I get it. You might wonder why someone like me—a Christian, a farmer, and someone who used to work in the firearms industry—would be a Democrat. But my decision isn’t about party politics. It’s about making daily life better for working families right here at home.

I understand the skepticism toward the Democratic Party. The truth is, Democrats have often failed rural communities. Too many policies are crafted by politicians in Northern Virginia and Richmond who treat rural areas as solutions to urban problems, rather than recognizing us as vital, independent communities. Meanwhile, the other side has drifted further into extremism, pushing out moderates and leaving no place for regular working folks who don’t want to bow down to billionaires. 

I’m running as a Democrat because rural Virginia needs someone at the table—someone who knows firsthand what is important and needed here at home. I grew up in 4-H and FFA, I've been a longtime member of the Virginia Farm Bureau and those organizations have taught me how to stand up for my community. Agriculture isn’t just a talking point to me; it’s part of my identity. I know what it’s like to come home tired from unpredictable days, dealing with bad weather and cattle prices dropping. That’s why I’m focused on practical solutions that will make families' lives better and our communities safer and more prosperous. 

My family has farmed in District 51 for over two hundred years. My hope is that my son will be able to share this farm with his children and grandchildren.

Early in the campaign, a woman came up to me after I spoke and asked if we could talk about guns. She didn’t want to talk about gun control but instead where she could safely learn firearm skills and purchase a firearm, as she was new to the area. Moments like these are why it frustrates me when Democrats are misunderstood as being opposed to responsible gun ownership. Having worked in the firearms industry, I know firsthand that responsible gun owners aren’t the issue. We need common-sense laws aimed squarely at criminals—not at everyday people hunting to feed their families or protecting their homes. That's basic practicality, not partisan politics.

One of my strongest motivations to run is my son, Eli. He starts kindergarten this fall, and he deserves someone in Richmond who will protect and strengthen public education. In our communities, teachers are heroes—not political targets. They deserve fair pay, respect, and proper resources. I've talked to teachers who buy school supplies out of their own pockets and parents worried about whether their child’s classroom has enough support. Every child deserves an advocate in Richmond fighting for their right to quality education, safe schools, and opportunities that prepare them for the future, no matter their parents' politics or income level. Our kids need someone who sees education as an investment, not an expense.

As the granddaughter of a World War II veteran who loved the United States of America, it’s heartbreaking to see our country become something harder and harder to recognize. My grandfather and his generation sacrificed so much to protect and strengthen our democracy. They returned home from war to build families and communities, never expecting praise or special treatment—just fairness and respect. Today, we should be ashamed when veterans who bravely served are called "parasites" simply for accessing the benefits they've earned. Our elders, especially our veterans, deserve better healthcare, stronger protections for their benefits, and a society that genuinely honors their contributions. My grandfather taught me real patriotism: standing up for your neighbors, your community, and those who've given so much for our nation. Protecting Social Security and Medicaid isn't just policy—it’s my moral responsibility. Dignity for our elders should never be up for debate, and I’ll fight every day to make sure it's protected.

So, when people ask, “Wait, you’re running as a Democrat?” my answer is clear: Yes. Because our community deserves someone who’s genuinely committed to improving our lives—someone willing to speak plainly, fight tirelessly, and deliver practical results. It’s not about being loyal to a political party; it’s about being loyal to the hardworking families, veterans, children, and seniors who need real advocacy and tangible solutions. And that’s exactly what I intend to bring to Richmond.