People-Powered Victory: A Night of Gratitude, Courage, and Commitment in Virginia Beach
On a night marked by celebration, reflection, and reverence for the work of democracy, the Virginia Beach Democratic Committee (VBDC) gathered to honor the people and partners who powered a year of historic, people-driven victories. From volunteers and members to community and labor partners, the message was clear and unwavering: our success belongs to all of you.
A Year Defined by People Power
VBDC leadership opened the evening by recognizing the grassroots strength that carried our movement—neighbors knocking doors, volunteers staffing polls, advocates defending the vote, and members showing up early and staying late. Democracy worked because people worked. And together, we delivered results that will shape Virginia for a generation.
With deep appreciation, we thank our labor and community partners—VBEA/VEA, IAFF Firefighters, AFL-CIO, ILA, Teamsters, and LiUNA as well as faith leaders from the Metro Ministers Conference and Virginia Beach Interdenominational Ministers Conference—whose solidarity and advocacy helped turn shared values into shared victories.
Historic Wins—Here and Across Virginia
Because of this collective effort, Virginians elected:
A Democratic Governor
A Democratic Lieutenant Governor
A Democratic Attorney General
A 64-seat Democratic majority in the House of Delegates
And right here in Virginia Beach, re-elected our Commissioner of the Revenue
These wins were historic, people-powered, and hard-earned.
Defending Fair Representation: Vote YES on 10–1
The evening honored the Vote YES on 10–1 Core Team, whose strategy, coalition-building, and public engagement—10 town halls, two rallies, and a Zoomathon—prevailed against a well-funded, developer-backed PAC. In a true David vs. Goliath victory, this nonpartisan, neighbor-to-neighbor campaign protected fair representation and voting rights with integrity, unity, and grit.
Honoring Courage and Service
Candidates who stepped into the arena in 2025 were recognized for carrying our values forward—win or lose—strengthening our party and inspiring volunteers. Lifetime Members were also honored, acknowledged as the foundation upon which today’s work stands.
Welcoming Leadership That Defends Our Values
The program welcomed Attorney General-Elect Jay Jones, celebrating a campaign rooted in defending civil rights, protecting democracy, and standing up for everyday Virginians. His leadership reflects the values our community organized to protect.
We also recognized the tireless work of District Chairs, Early Vote Captains, and Election Day volunteers, whose dedication ensured access, turnout, and trust in our elections.
Volunteer Awards: The Heart of the Work
VBDC proudly celebrated volunteers who went above and beyond:
First Landing Impact Award (Volunteer Recruitment): Ralph Volk
Sandbridge Harmony Award (Community Outreach): Jillian Howe
Neptune Legacy Award (Lifetime Achievement): Laurice Yarn
Their service embodies the heart, grit, and commitment that power our committee.
Looking Ahead—Together
As the evening closed, VBDC reaffirmed our shared purpose. These victories were not about any one person—they were about all of us, united and organized. And they are just the beginning. In 2026, we will:
Elect a Democratic U.S. Senator
Win VA-02
Elect a City Council and School Board that put students, workers, and affordability first
With gratitude for the work done and resolve for the work ahead, the Virginia Beach Democratic Committee moves forward—organizing, mobilizing, and winning—together.