VIP - Virginia in Politics

Get to know Delegate Ellen Campbell (R-Rockbridge) as she shares stories from her life and political journey. Delegate Campbell talks about her legislative priorities and her pledge to continue the work and legacy of her late husband, Delegate Ronnie Campbell. Listen as she shares lessons learned, favorite things, and more! 

Chris continues discussing Virginia's 2023 elections, this time focusing on the eight districts that will determine the outcome and direction of the Virginia Senate.

Former Virginia Governor Douglas Wilder and Dr. Susan Gooden, Dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, join Chris to talk about the Wilder School, the Commonwealth Poll, and much more. They discuss the recent results of the Commonwealth Poll, how they design it to ensure truthful results, and how it can be used as a bridge between Virginians and policymakers. Governor Wilder also offers insight into leadership and governance in Virginia.

Learn more about the L. Douglas Wilder School: https://wilder.vcu.edu/

Senator Jennifer Boysko (D-Fairfax) stops by the studio again for a quick conversation about two bills she introduced this session (both bills have passed the Senate). Senator Boysko's SB1101 proposes paid family and medical leave. She is also sponsoring SB1139, a gun storage bill that that would require adults to keep guns locked up if minors are in the home.  

The Honorable Judge Chadwick Dotson joins Chris for a conversation about the parole process in Virginia. Judge Dotson explains what goes into the decision-making process and shares stories from his time on the bench. They discuss the history, what's changed, what can be made better, and more.

Delegate Chris Head returns for an interesting conversation about his legislation, the dynamics of this year's short session, Southwest Virginia culture, his run for senate in the 3rd district, and the Attorney General's Parole Board Report. Get to know Delegate Head as he shares favorite books, tv shows, and more! You don't want to miss this conversation. 

Get to know delegate Michelle Maldonado (50th District)! An inspiring first term delegate in her second legislative session, she talks about the thought process that led her to political leadership - specifically the three moments that led her to say "that's it," and run for election. Delegate Maldonado shares her unique perspectives, interests, hobbies, and more! You don't want to miss this thoughtful conversation.

Director of the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership, Larry Roberts, joins Chris for a thoughtful discussion on public leadership and reaching across party lines.

They discuss how shifts in political parties, demographics, and generations have impacted governance in Virginia and beyond.

Roberts’ government service includes positions as Counselor to Governor Tim Kaine and Chief of Staff to Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax. In each position, he earned praise for working across the partisan aisle.

Learn more about Sorensen: https://sorensen.coopercenter.org/

Chris continues discussing the 2023 elections and the importance of keeping a close eye on the nomination contests

Chris discusses the dynamics impacting Virginia's 2023 elections. With all 140 legislative seats soon on the ballot in newly drawn districts, some races with incumbents running against each other, the energy in the General Assembly can be intense! 

Chris discusses how these races are impacting floor debates and policy outcomes in the House and the Senate, and makes a few predictions. He also explains what he believes are the two most important factors for both parties going into the high-stakes 2023 elections.