Fairfax County, Virginia is a bustling and diverse community located just outside of Washington D. C. With a population of over 1.1 million people, it is the most populous county in the state and the second-largest in the Washington metropolitan area. As such, it plays a significant role in the political landscape of both Virginia and the United States as a whole.
The Role of Politics in Fairfax County
Politics in Fairfax County, VA is a complex and ever-evolving landscape.The county is known for its highly educated and affluent population, making it a coveted area for politicians to campaign and gain support. In recent years, Fairfax County has become a key battleground in state and national elections, with both major political parties vying for control. One of the main reasons for this is the county's diverse demographics. Fairfax County is home to a large immigrant population, with over 30% of residents being foreign-born. This diversity brings with it a wide range of political views and ideologies, making it a microcosm of the larger political climate in the United States.
The Current Elected Officials
As of 2021, Fairfax County is represented by a mix of Democratic and Republican elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels.Let's take a closer look at who these officials are and what they stand for.
Board of Supervisors
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is responsible for governing the county and making policy decisions that affect its residents. The board consists of nine members, each representing a specific district within the county.Jeffrey C. McKay
currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. He was first elected in 2019 and is a member of the Democratic Party.McKay's priorities include affordable housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability.
Walter L. Alcorn
represents the Hunter Mill District and was elected in 2019. He is also a member of the Democratic Party and focuses on issues such as land use, transportation, and environmental protection.Dalia Palchik
is the Supervisor for the Providence District and was elected in 2019. She is a member of the Democratic Party and has a background in education, advocating for issues such as school funding and mental health services.John Foust
represents the Dranesville District and has been on the Board of Supervisors since 2008. He is a member of the Democratic Party and has a strong focus on economic development and transportation.Kathy Smith
serves as the Supervisor for the Sully District and was first elected in 2015. She is a member of the Democratic Party and has a background in education, advocating for issues such as school funding and mental health services.Linda S. Smyth
represents the Providence District and has been on the Board of Supervisors since 2004. She is a member of the Democratic Party and focuses on issues such as affordable housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability.Penny Gross
serves as the Supervisor for the Mason District and has been on the Board of Supervisors since 1996. She is a member of the Democratic Party and has a strong focus on community engagement and public safety.Daniel G. Storck
represents the Mount Vernon District and was first elected in 2015. He is a member of the Democratic Party and has a background in education, advocating for issues such as school funding and mental health services.James R.Walkinshaw serves as the Supervisor for the Braddock District and was elected in 2019. He is a member of the Democratic Party and has a strong focus on economic development and transportation.
State Representatives
Fairfax County is represented by several state officials, including members of the Virginia House of Delegates and the Virginia Senate.Kay Kory
represents the 38th District in the Virginia House of Delegates. She was first elected in 2009 and is a member of the Democratic Party. Kory's priorities include education, healthcare, and environmental protection.Mark Keam
serves as the Delegate for the 35th District and was first elected in 2009. He is also a member of the Democratic Party and focuses on issues such as economic development, education, and healthcare.Chap Petersen
represents the 34th District in the Virginia Senate. He was first elected in 2007 and is a member of the Democratic Party.Petersen's priorities include education, transportation, and criminal justice reform.
Barbara Favola
serves as the Senator for the 31st District and was first elected in 2011. She is a member of the Democratic Party and has a strong focus on healthcare, education, and environmental protection.Federal Representatives
Fairfax County is also represented by members of Congress at the federal level.Gerry Connolly
represents Virginia's 11th Congressional District in the U. S. House of Representatives. He was first elected in 2008 and is a member of the Democratic Party.Connolly's priorities include healthcare, transportation, and environmental protection.
