Opinion Column

By Stephen J. Farnsworth

If you like legislative gridlock, then you have come to the right place, Virginia.

2025 Virginia Legislative Preview (Commentary, FXBG Advance)

"He saw a partner in the District. He sent his daughter Amy to public school, something that presidents do not do other than Jimmy Carter in recent decades. You see, of course, with Jimmy Carter, he worshipped at local churches. He was very much connected to the community at a time that was really, really, important for the District in the rise of home rule," said Stephen Farnsworth, professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington.

Young generations honor late President Jimmy Carter’s influence and leadership (WJLA)

Stephen Farnsworth, a political science professor at the University of Mary Washington, said unlike the special elections, Virginia at-large is more competitive, rendering the races a better indicator of where voters are nationally.

Virginia elections signal no major shift in voter sentiment in a state watched closely for clues (Associated Press)

“What we’ll see in the short term is an answer to the question of exactly what is the plan that the Trump administration wants to put forward regarding federal workers,” said Dr. Stephen J. Farnsworth, professor of political science and international affairs at the University of Mary Washington.

Fate of federal workforce unclear as Trump wins second term (DC News Now)

“You really do see a scenario where a lot of people felt like they could take care of the abortion question I think on the referendum or legislative side and vote for Trump based on other matters of high importance to them,” Dr. Stephen Farnsworth of University Mary Washington said. 

Northern Virginia Trump supporters react to election win (WUSA 9)