Change is never easy, but not changing is far more dangerous. We all love the small-town charm of our community, and in a perfect world it would stay the same forever. But the truth is, without new revenue, we face higher and higher taxes that will push people out. The real solution is embracing tourism — a way to grow responsibly while keeping our small-town feel alive.

Public safety isn’t optional — it’s the backbone of a thriving community. Our firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement deserve the resources to do their jobs safely and effectively. By strengthening our economy through tourism and growth, we can fund emergency services without raising taxes on residents. A safer Warren County starts with supporting those who keep us safe.

Our region is home to some of the darkest skies on the East Coast — a treasure that few communities can claim. Imagine turning that natural gift into a major tourism driver with events like a “Dark Sky Weekend” filled with guided stargazing, astrophotography workshops, educational talks, and family-friendly activities. Protecting our dark skies not only preserves our rural beauty but also creates unique opportunities for economic growth, bringing visitors who will dine in our restaurants, stay in our lodging, and shop at our small businesses. With the right vision and planning, Warren County can shine brighter by keeping our skies darker.

In 2024, Virginia tourism generated $53.3 billion in economic impact — but Warren County is only getting a small share. I have a clear plan to change that: launch targeted tourism marketing, build year-round attractions, diversify our economy beyond tourism, and ensure transparency in every step. With the right strategy, we can grow revenue, create jobs, and make Warren County a top Virginia destination.

I’ve always stood with our teachers—they’re more than educators; they’re mentors and leaders shaping the future of our community. But year after year, we’re losing top talent to better-funded areas. If we want to retain 5-star teachers and give our kids the best shot at success, we must grow our local revenue base. That’s why I’m pushing for stronger economic development, smart tourism growth, and support for light manufacturing. More growth means more funding for our schools—and a stronger future for us all.

While most people focus on the energy demands of data centers, there's another danger we can't ignore—constant noise pollution. That steady 52-decibel hum may seem quiet to us, but to wildlife, it's a persistent disruption that drives animals away, breaks natural cycles, and silences ecosystems. We must say no to unchecked data center development before our natural world goes quiet for good.