WOODBRIDGE, Va. — CASA in Action, a proven leader for Black, Latino, immigrant and working class voter mobilization, is thrilled to announce its support for Virginia Beach City Councilmember Aaron Rouse for the upcoming special election in Virginia’s 7th Senate District on Jan. 10. The organization is entering this special election after notching a series of impressive victories during the 2022 general election cycle, and aims to continue delivering progressive policy measures to its member base in Virginia.
“CASA in Action is committed to keep fighting for policy initiatives like better wages, paid family leave, and affordable health care in the Virginia Beach community,” CASA in Action Voter Engagement Manager Marvin Hernandez said. “This election presents us with a key opportunity to expand the Democratic majority in Virginia’s Senate, and prevent partisan gridlock from stifling policies that improve the lives of immigrants and working families in the district.”
Even after Republicans captured the Governor’s mansion and House of Delegates during Virginia’s 2021 gubernatorial elections, CASA in Action’s efforts this year proved vital to helping Rep. Abigail Spanberger fend off a challenge from anti-immigrant Republican Yesli Vega in Virginia’s 7th Congressional District. The narrow Democratic majority in Virginia’s Senate forms a bulwark against Republican measures like the 287(g) programs that have been responsible for the separation of thousands of immigrant families across the commonwealth. Rouse’s victory in this race would not only add to that line of defense against Republican initiatives, but also provide a key ally for policies that benefit veterans, youths, and working families across Virginia Beach.
“With each campaign we wage in Virginia, our ground game and our ability to engage with voters in communities of color continue to improve,” CASA in Action Director of Electoral Programs William Renderos said. “Republicans are in for a shock if they think their victories from last year mean Virginians have given up on immigrants’ rights, affordable health care, and equitable education that empowers Black and Latino youths. When we start knocking doors on Jan. 2, we intend to make sure they hear us loud and clear.”
###
CASA in Action, 501(c)(4) is a national organization supporting immigrant and working class families and ensuring that all individuals have the core resources necessary for full participation in society. For more information, please visit CASAinAction.org. Follow us at @CASAinAction.