Today, the New Democrat Coalition Action Fund officially announced its endorsement of James Walkinshaw in the September 9th special election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. This is the Coalition’s first endorsement of the 2026 cycle.
Walkinshaw has served as a Member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for the past five years, and previously served as the Chief of Staff to long-time New Dem Member Gerry Connolly, former Congressman for Virginia’s 11th District.
“New Dems are proud to endorse James Walkinshaw for this key special election. Every race matters as we approach the 2026 midterms, and we know James has the experience and common-sense approach it will take to hold this seat and deliver for the people of Virginia’s 11th,” said New Dem Action Fund Chair Greg Stanton (AZ-04). “I can think of no one better suited to carry on the legacy of our dear friend and colleague Gerry Connolly than James, who worked to implement the Congressman’s agenda for more than a decade as his top adviser. As we quickly approach the special election on September 9th, New Dems will do everything we can to ensure James has the resources and support he needs to win this seat.”
“I’m honored to have the endorsement of the New Democrat Coalition Action Fund,” said James Walkinshaw. “I’ve seen firsthand how New Dems lead with integrity and deliver real results for the American people. As Congressman Connolly’s Chief of Staff, I worked with New Dems for more than a decade — fighting for economic opportunity, protecting our democracy, and solving problems with common-sense leadership that puts people first.”