Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney Taylor Launches Virginia 1st District Congressional Bid

Henrico County Commonwealth's Attorney Shannon Taylor has launched her campaign to unseat longtime Republican Rep. Rob Wittman in Virginia's 1st Congressional District. Taylor, a three-term prosecutor with nearly 30 years of experience, entered the race shortly after narrowly losing the Democratic primary for Virginia attorney general. She emphasizes her record of delivering justice, keeping communities safe, and protecting working families, while criticizing Wittman for supporting Medicaid cuts and policies she says harm healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Taylor has secured endorsements from prominent Democrats including Sen. Tim Kaine, former governors Ralph Northam and Terry McAuliffe, and several members of Congress. The district, which includes suburbs of Richmond and stretches to the Northern Neck, is conservative-leaning but seen as potentially competitive in a favorable election year for Democrats. Taylor faces a crowded Democratic primary field but is considered the most politically experienced candidate, with strong backing from party leadership.