This week, we invited the candidates running for local office in the Nov. 5 General Election to write a post about why Arlington residents should vote for them. Find information on how and where to vote here.
Below is the unedited response from David Kennedy, who is running for House of Representatives – 8th District as an Independent.
Dear Friends and Neighbors of Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria, and Fairfax County,
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU! for opening your doors, pausing your conversations, welcoming my posts on social media, and, most importantly, for your kindness and grace. It’s been a privilege to connect with so many of you.
As I ask for your vote and seek to represent you in the U.S. Congress, I believe that change matters—especially when it reflects the shared values of our community. I am a new voice, running as a moderate, independent candidate driven by the quality-of-life concerns of Northern Virginia. My platform reflects what I’ve heard from all of you and is deeply informed by my life experiences. As your representative in the U.S. Congress, I will fight for:
- Affordable housing, affordable childcare, and a living wage
- Safe streets coupled with opportunities for at-risk for youth
- A woman’s absolute right to choose
- Support for veterans transitioning to civilian life
- Compassionate care for those struggling with mental illness and addictions
- And I will always advocate for the most vulnerable among us.
Northern Virginians, and for that matter, the vast majority of Americans, are ready to reclaim our future from divisive politics. The idea that we are more united than we are divided is not just a slogan—it’s at the core of who we are and what we aspire to be as Americans. The American Spirit shines brightest in the spirit of the Good Samaritan—the one who stops to help those in need. In my campaign and in all aspects of my life, I am guided by these three principles:
- Love Neighbor – the great biblical call to live into community
- Respect Differences – the simple act of treating others the as you wish to be treated
- AND ALWAYS Challenge Bullies – standing up for anyone who’s marginalized, anytime, anywhere.
Finally, I will bring an independent, grassroots energy, committed to change—not change for its own sake, but a shift in how we do politics. The influence of big donors, big money, and special interests has too often drowned out the voice of the people. But in America, WE THE PEOPLE hold the power, and it’s time Washington remembers who it serves.
I promise to be present and visible, hold regular town halls, listen closely, and serve Northern Virginia with passion, compassion, and the commitment to serve you. It has been an honor meeting so many of you, and I humbly ask you for your vote on November 5th!
Sincerely, Dave
About Dave Kennedy: Dave is an Arlington, Virginia resident with a background in social justice ministry and higher education advocacy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Lehigh University, a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Chicago, and most recently, a master’s degree in public theology from the Wesley Theological Seminary. Dave is running as an Independent candidate in the 8th Congressional District of Northern Virginia. You can learn more by visiting www.DaveKennedy2024.com
