We have a pair of early January special elections taking place for seats in both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly. Polls close at 7 p.m. (EST). We will have the results below once they do.
Republican State Senator Frank Ruff will resign on January 9th due to health concerns. This will leave the seat in State Senate District 9, which covers eight counties and independent cities in south central Virginia, vacant for a special election that is taking place the same day. The local parties selected their nominees who will vie to replace him. Democrats selected former South Boston Vice Mayor Tina Younger, while Republicans chose Clarksville Town Councilor Tammy Mulchi. The 9th District is considered a safe seat for the Republicans to hold on to. The new legislative session begins on January 10 where the Democrats will have a narrow advantage over Republicans in the Senate.
The seat in House District 48 will be vacant once Republican Delegate Les Adams retires on January 9. House District 48 covers parts of Henry and Pittsylvania Counties as well as the City of Martinsville. The local parties selected their nominees who will vie to replace him. Democrats selected Melody Cartwright, while Republicans chose Eric Phillips. Both are political newcomers. The 48th District is considered a safe seat for the Republicans to hold on to. The new legislative session begins on January 10 where the Democrats will have a narrow advantage over Republicans in the House of Delegates.