Overview
- At least four Democratic contenders suspended their bids after courts left Virginia’s existing congressional map in place for 2026.
- Dorothy McAuliffe, J. P. Cooney, Dan Helmer, and Bree Fram ended campaigns built for proposed districts such as the 7th and 11th.
- Several others, including Elizabeth Guzman, Adele McClure, and Saddam Salim, halted bids, while Olivia Troye has not confirmed whether she will withdraw.
- Former Rep. Tom Perriello said he will continue by shifting into the current 5th District to challenge Republican Rep. John McGuire.
- Candidate filing runs through May 26 with an Aug. 4 primary, a tight window that preserves the state’s 6–5 Democratic edge and undercuts plans that relied on a bluer proposed 7th District.