VanValkenburg wins
He defeats powerful state Senator Siobhan Dunnavant.
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Big win
Del. Schuyler VanValkenburg (D) has defeated Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant (R) in SD-16.
Dunnavant is considered one of the best at campaigning in the Republican Party — but she could not overcome the redrawn district that was favorable to Democrats.
With this win, along with promising numbers for Aaron Rouse, Democrats should keep control of the state Senate.
Richmond casino referendum goes down
The Richmond casino referendum failed to pass again.
Backers of the casino, Richmond Wins, Vote Yes, issued the following statement:
“We are proud to have run a community-centered campaign to create more opportunities for residents of this great city to rise into the middle class. We are grateful to the thousands of Richmonders who voted for good jobs and a stronger city, especially those in Southside who poured their hearts into this project.”
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney issued the following statement:
“I will continue to be a voice for communities that have been historically overlooked and underserved. I will work for more accessible and affordable child care, for good paying jobs, and for an abundance of opportunities for ALL Richmonders – no matter their zip code or socioeconomic status.”