Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor has officially launched her campaign for Virginia’s First Congressional District. Taylor, a seasoned prosecutor, will challenge Republican incumbent Rep. Rob Wittman in the upcoming election.
Taylor announced her congressional bid on Monday, September 8, highlighting her extensive courtroom experience and support from both local and national figures. Her campaign emphasizes public safety, community protection, and criminal justice expertise.
This move comes after Taylor previously sought the Democratic nomination for Virginia Attorney General in 2025. She narrowly lost to Jay Jones in a closely contested primary that drew statewide attention.
Taylor has served as Henrico County’s top prosecutor since 2012, becoming the first woman to hold the commonwealth’s attorney position. Over her 28-year career, she has built a reputation for strong legal knowledge and community-focused initiatives.
In her announcement, Taylor cited key achievements from her tenure, including a nearly 90% conviction rate in homicide cases. She stressed her dedication to keeping neighborhoods safe and tackling crime effectively. Taylor’s record in Henrico County has been marked by efforts to modernize the justice system and ensure fair outcomes in the courtroom.
Rep. Rob Wittman has represented Virginia’s First District since 2007. During his tenure, he has concentrated on military and veteran support, infrastructure improvements, and local economic development. Wittman’s long incumbency presents a significant challenge for Taylor as she enters the race.
Taylor’s campaign focuses on her legal expertise as a cornerstone of her platform. She aims to translate decades of prosecutorial experience into effective federal policymaking, particularly in areas like public safety, law enforcement funding, and criminal justice reform.
Her announcement comes at a time when Virginia’s congressional districts are drawing national attention. Political analysts note that her strong record as a prosecutor may appeal to moderate and independent voters, offering a competitive challenge in a district that has leaned Republican in past elections.
Taylor has also secured endorsements from key community leaders and national figures, signaling a well-organized and strategically backed campaign. These endorsements underscore her professional credibility and experience, aligning with the expectations of Virginia voters seeking knowledgeable and reliable representation.
During her time as Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney, Taylor introduced programs aimed at reducing repeat offenses, supporting victims of violent crime, and strengthening relationships between law enforcement and local communities. She emphasizes that her approach combines toughness on crime with fairness in the justice system, a message she plans to carry into her congressional campaign.
Political observers say that Taylor’s entry into the race increases competition in Virginia’s First District. Her emphasis on proven experience and community safety contrasts with Wittman’s focus on infrastructure and veteran affairs, giving voters a distinct choice on priorities and leadership style.
Taylor’s campaign strategy includes town hall meetings, community outreach, and highlighting her prosecution record to demonstrate tangible results. She believes that her hands-on courtroom experience uniquely positions her to address both local and national challenges in Congress.
With her announcement, Shannon Taylor officially begins the race for Virginia’s First District, setting up a high-profile contest against a long-serving incumbent. The campaign will test her ability to convert legal expertise into broad political support while navigating the dynamics of a competitive district.
