Politics & Government
Democrats Pick Wexton in Firehouse Primary to Run for 33rd Senate District
The Leesburg attorney defeated Herndon Town Councilwoman Sheila Olem for nomination.
In Saturday's "firehouse primary," Democrats in Virginia’s 33rd Senate District nominated Leesburg attorney Jennifer Wexton to run for the seat being vacated by Virginia Attorney General-elect Mark Herring – this is, if Herring hangs on to victory after an anticipated recount.
The district represents parts of Loudoun and Fairfax counties.
Wexton received 729 votes to Herndon Councilwoman Sheila Olem’s 433, with three ballots deemed “spoiled.” Wexton won the majority at two of the three polling places. More than 1,100 voters turned out for the “firehouse primary.” The Democratic Party of Virginia supervised the ballot count.
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While Herring has the lead in the state vote, a recount is likely before the final outcome of the AG race is determine.
“Virginia can look forward to seeing her carry on Mark Herring’s example of common sense and pragmatic solutions in the Senate,” said Loudoun County Democratic Committee Chairman Evan Macbeth about Wexton. “I want to express all of our thanks and gratitude to Sheila Olem for running a positive and energizing campaign, and to Tony Fasolo, Cesar del Aguila and the nominating committee volunteers for the tireless work they did administering the nominating process as the District Democratic Nominating Committee.”
Find out what's happening in Herndonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
DPVA Chair Charniele Herring – no relation – also weighed in on the race.
“Jennifer brings a wealth of experience and leadership in the District and, when elected our next State Senator from the 33rd, will continue to build upon the solid foundation laid by Attorney General-elect Mark Herring,” Chairman Herring said. "I also want to thank Sheila Olem for her tireless commitment to the Commonwealth, the Thirty-Third Senate District, and to the Democratic Party. It's now time to unite, as Democrats, to guarantee victory on Election Day."
Wexton will face the Republican nominee in a special election for the seat.
Total Votes:
Wexton – 729
Olem – 433
Voting by polling place:
Cascades
Wexton – 283
Olem – 108
Blank – 1
Leesburg
Wexton – 331
Olem – 84
Overvotes 2
Herndon
Wexton – 115
Olem – 241
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