James Walkinshaw, a former top aide to the late Virginia Rep. Gerald E. Connolly, won the Democratic nomination Saturday in the special election to succeed his former boss, putting him on track to become the next member of Congress from the deep-blue district.
Walkinshaw, a Fairfax County supervisor, defeated nine other candidates in a party-run “firehouse primary,” according to Democratic officials in Virginia’s 11th District. He won 60 percent of the vote, while his nearest rivals, state Del. Irene Shin and state Sen. Stella Pekarsky, trailed with 14 percent and 13 percent, respectively.
“This victory was powered by neighbors, volunteers, and supporters who believe in protecting our democracy, defending our freedoms, and delivering for working families,” Walkinshaw said in a statement, before thanking the Connolly family “for standing with me as we carry Gerry’s legacy forward.”
