.jpg)
Ellen Campbell currently represents Rockbridge County in the Virginia House of Delegates 24th district, having won the seat held by her late husband, Del. Ronnie Campbell, in a special election in January.
She is now hoping to be elected to her first full term in the state legislature, running for the seat representing the newly-drawn District 36, which includes parts of northern Rockbridge County, including the Fairfield, Raphine and Brownsburg areas. It also covers parts of Augusta County, including the cities of Staunton and Waynesboro.
On her campaign website, Campbell talks about how she “was constantly at her husband’s side when he represented our District,” and that she is “ready to continue his legacy of public service.”
One of her biggest priorities if elected is public safety, something that she hopes can be addressed effectively if the Republican Party retains control of the House of Delegates. She also hopes a Republican-controlled House could create opportunities for small businesses throughout the commonwealth.
“Virginians deserve to feel safe in their communities,” she told The News-Gazette. “My belief is that with Republicans in control, we can pass legislation that prioritizes things like public safety, creating opportunities for small businesses, and making sure Virginia is the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Much concern was raised over the delayed passing of a budget for the 2024 fiscal year, with the final budget being signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin on Sept. 14, two and a half months into the fiscal year. Campbell is focusing on the fact that the legislature was able to pass a budget and what it provided for the state.
“I am proud to say it provided much needed tax relief to Virginians and it provided record funding for our school systems and support to law enforcement,” she said.
There are still things she would like to see happen on the financial side of things, including additional tax relief for Virginians.
“As we all know, inflation is hurting our families,” she said. “We need to prioritize putting money back into Virginians’ pockets so they can afford basic necessities like groceries and gas.”
Among the hot-button social issues on the line for this year’s election is access to abortion. Governor Youngkin has proposed a ban on abortions after 15 weeks, with exceptions allowed in cases of rape, incest, and where the life of the mother is at risk. Democrats in the State Senate have blocked the legislation, but if the Republicans regain control of the Senate while maintaining control of the House, it could pass in an upcoming session.
Campbell says she feels that the governor’s plan is “the most reasonable approach” to addressing abortion, adding that she “would also support resources for women who become pregnant and feel like they have nowhere else to turn other than having an abortion.”
Campbell is asking the citizens within her district to vote for her “because I am confident I can be an effective legislator and a voice for our community.”
“I’m a member of this community and I will always fight for conservative values,” she said. “My office door is always open for constituents to voice concerns and bring issues to the table for discussion.”
