Gov. Glenn Youngkin set the Special Election in Virginia’s 4th Congressional District for Feb. 21, 2023. The race is to replace former Democratic U.S. Rep. Donald McEachin, who passed away Nov. 28.
Candidates have until Dec. 23 to file for the race.
Virginia State Delegate Lamont Bagby, a Democrat, is expected to run, according to reports. He currently serves as chair of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and is expected to make an announcement this week, according to ABC 8 News. Bagby considered McEachin a mentor.
On Sunday, Bagby tweeted that he will announce Monday “how I plan to help build on the McEachin legacy for the next generation.” The tweet said to tune in at 1, but as of 2 p.m., no announcement had been made.
Donald McEachin spent his entire career building a incredible legacy for this community that we will never forget.
I would not be here without him.
Tomorrow I will tell you how I plan to help build on the McEachin legacy for the next generation. Tune in here starting at 1 pm! pic.twitter.com/yWCa9Re7JK
— Lamont Bagby (@delegatebagby) December 12, 2022
Other potential Democratic candidates have also been speculated, including state Sen. Jennifer McClellan. ABC 8 reported that a spokesperson said “she takes the responsibility of (McEachin’s) legacy seriously” and “is very likely to run.” The statement also said “community leaders have encouraged her to run.”
Former Delegate Lashrecse Aird and McEachin’s widow, Colette McEachin, both Democrats, are also possible contenders.
This district is a Democratic stronghold.
