Shannon Taylor won the Democratic primary Tuesday in Virginia's 1st Congressional District. The victory sets up a November 3 showdown with longtime Republican incumbent Rob Wittman, who has served in Congress since 2007.
Although the district has historically favored Republicans, Democrats believe changing suburban voting patterns around Richmond could make the race more competitive.
Earlier this year, Virginia Democrats attempted to redraw the congressional map to create districts more favorable to their party. The proposed map was struck down and will not be used in the upcoming election, alleviating concerns that Wittman’s seat might be at risk.
The Democratic primary featured a crowded field of seven candidates. They included Henrico Commonwealth's Attorney Shannon Taylor, former Justice Department official Salaam Bhatti, Army veteran Jason Knapp, and attorney Mel Tull.
The remaining candidates were environmental advocate Tim Cywinski, attorney Ericka Kopp, and educator Elizabeth Beggs. All candidates competed for the Democratic nomination to face Wittman in the general election.
Wittman is seeking another term after representing the district since 2007. Virginia’s congressional primaries were held in August this year, a shift from the traditional June schedule, following litigation over new congressional maps that delayed the nomination process.
