As I have been engaging more with the press and constituents since the launch of my campaign, one topic that seems to come up more than most is Virginia’s potential redistricting before the 2026 midterm elections.
In the wake of Texas’ attempt to redraw congressional lines, and the ensuing responses from states such as California and North Carolina, the battle for a congressional majority has now reached our great Commonwealth. Now, running a campaign with this unknown factor, of course, means that there are some challenges. However, discipline and strategy tell me that no matter where the lines are drawn, I’m fighting for something bigger than myself – this is about protecting democracy. I’ll continue that fighting spirit when I enter the halls of Congress, regardless of district lines. If new maps are not drawn, I will be glad that the voice of voters have been heard, and I will fight based on the battle lines that Virginians want. MAGA Republicans started this fight, and Virginian voters will get to decide how they want to end it.
I feel uniquely prepared to navigate this campaign, whatever it looks like. My 24 years of experience in the Army taught me to adapt as changes occur – and changes always occur. I know for certain that one thing about this campaign will not change: my resume and conviction make me a strong contender in any map configuration. I’ve worked in the military, in the White House, in the private sector, and live, happily, on a farm. I raised my children in Northern Virginia schools, and I have spent the last several years travelling throughout Virginia to meet individuals and hear their stories. I have heard what people want, and they want change. They want to be able to afford housing, childcare, and healthcare. They want their everyday costs lowered, and to know that their jobs, benefits, and human decency won’t be stripped away by a rogue administration. They want to return stability, decency, and respect to the halls of Congress, and that is exactly what my campaign is about.
In 2026, we get the opportunity to send a clear message to Washington: we deserve better. We deserve leadership that will leave no one behind, and I’m looking forward to showing voters, no matter how the lines are drawn, that I am the leader who can bring that change to our communities.
Ken Mitchell, the 2024 Democratic Party nominee for the Sixth District seat in Congress, is a candidate for the 2026 Democratic Party nomination in the Sixth District.