As Democratic nominee James Walkinshaw and Republican nominee Stewart Whitson reach the final stretch to the special election, talking to voters, holding launches and canvassing are some of the ways they connect with voters.
Due to the passing of former U.S Rep. Gerald Connolly on May 21, a special election will be held on Sept. 9 for the 11th district of Virginia. On this day, schools and other government-owned spaces such as the government center will be closed for polling, including CHS.
“High school students are thinking about college, getting a job and hopefully living here in Northern Virginia and being able to afford it,” Walkinshaw said. “I want to make sure that the economy allows them for that.”
Both candidates emphasize policies with high school students, such as safety in Fairfax County and future opportunities, but have their own differences. Walkinshaw’s policies for high school students focus on affordable college and a better future economy, while Whitson focuses on safety in FCPS.
“I am focused on standing up for families and students, promoting public safety, protecting girls’ sports and the privacy and dignity of our children in the school locker rooms and bathrooms,” Whitson said.
Although many high school students aren’t eligible to vote yet, both campaigns encourage support from youth and offer opportunities to volunteer. According to Walkinshaw’s campaign field director, Myeshia Jones, high school students played an important role in winning the primary and continue to hold influence in the special election through volunteer efforts, Walkinshaw agreed.
“Even those who are not 18, your elected representatives still represent you,” Walkinshaw said.“You might think your elected officials don’t care about what you think, but it’s untrue. I treat them the same as someone older.”
(Huda Noorzai)
Besides informing voters about the election, both candidates are making efforts to gain voters, Wakinshaw is hosting a rally in Vienna with Abigail Spanberger, Democratic nominee for Virginia governor, on Sept.6. Whitson is holding a meet-and-greet in Clifton on Sept. 7. Together, these efforts for engagement highlight the role voters will play.
“On Sept. 9, voters have the chance to choose between two very different candidates, with very different backgrounds and very different visions for our future and that’s exciting.” Whitson said.
