Jenn's Endorsements
- All
- Elected Officials
- Virginia Voices
Adrienne Whitaker
Chief Strategist, 4VABlue - Richmond
Electing an experienced, resolute leader as Virginia’s governor will be more important in 2021 than ever before. Jennifer McClellan is a proven force of change whose record of legislative accomplishments and community service illuminate her commitment to progress, equity, and justice for all Virginians. 4VABlue is proud to endorse Jennifer McClellan for Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Not only do we support her we are happy to volunteer or time and talent to her campaign.
The Honorable Albert C. Pollard, Jr.
Non Profit Consultant & Former Delegate, Irvington
As her former seatmate in the House of Delegates, I first learned of Jennifer's deep and sincere interest in genealogy and history. This scrutiny of our actual collective past, combined with Jennifer's steely grace and simmering passion is the right combination to move Virginia forward.
Alisa Gregory
Sheriff, Henrico County
I am supporting Senator McClellan because I believe her experience and character will allow her to be a governor that will unite and move us forward. She has demonstrated through servant-leadership, a willingness to listen to and address the concerns of her constituents, and her commitment to the inclusion of all Virginians that she is ready to be THE FIRST!!!!
Amanda Pohl
2019 Democratic Nominee, Virginia Senate District 11
Senator McClellan is a tireless and passionate fighter for all Virginians who has spent her entire political career focused on how to solve real problems in our Commonwealth. I am proud to endorse her as Virginia's next Governor because I know that no matter what challenges we face, she has the grit and courage to tackle those challenges head on while listening to the voices of those who are directly affected by government decisions.
Amy Wentz
Community Leader & Founder of Black RVA
Jennifer McClellan has been in the community doing the work as long as I have known her. She will show up and listen. She is not going to promise the world just to tell you what you want to hear. She is going to tell you the truth and she's going to back it up with action!
Dr. Andrea Douglas, MBA, PhD
Art & Culture History & Community Leader, Charlottesville
I am supporting Jen McClellan because she diligently works for equity for all Virginians.
Aneesh Chopra
Former U.S. Chief Technology Officer in the Obama Administration, Secretary of Technology in the Kaine Administration, President of CareJourney
Jenn is the leader we need at this moment, to build a more inclusive Commonwealth on a foundation of a government that works. Her vision, experience, and relentless focus on execution, make her the clear choice for Virginia's future.
Delegate Betsy Carr
Virginia House of Delegates, Richmond
I'm delighted to endorse Jennifer McClellan. Her thoughtful leadership and attention to constituents plays a vital role in making our communities a better place to live, work, and play. I'm confident she will continue to work hard to do the same for the entire Commonwealth as Governor.
Brenda Mead
Staunton City Council Member
Virginia needs a Governor that is going to ensure our rural communities move forward and have what we need to thrive. I fully support Jennifer McClellan for Governor because I know her vision is for all of us.
Cale Jaffe
Environmental Law and Policy Expert, Charlottesville
Senator McClellan's ability to work across the aisle and build support for common-sense solutions is remarkable. She led the effort on the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which establishes Virginia as a national leader in creating green jobs and tackling climate change head on. I can't wait to see her bring her solutions-oriented approach to the Governor's mansion.
Councilman Chris Jones
City of Harrisonburg, Virginia
I am in full support of Jennifer McClellan for Governor because I trust her to work. I know that she will act in the best interest of all Virginians to strengthen the economy in every region of the state. She will partner with the private sector to bring jobs and prosperity in the rural parts of our state as well as the urban areas. McClellan stands for equitable economic development and robust partnership
Cydny A. Neville, MAEd
Dumfries Town Council
Two key areas of focus for our recovery are going to be: helping our small businesses stabilize and thrive, and strengthening our public schools. Jennifer is a proven leader who will work to support our small, woman and minority business owners across Virginia - who are the backbone of our economy! As an entrepreneur and educator. I am proud to endorse Jennifer McClellan for Governor!
The Honorable Daun Sessoms Hester
City Treasurer & Former Delegate, Norfolk
I believe the steady leadership and experience of Jenn McClellan is exactly what we need. Her vision for Virginia is bold and inclusive, and I look forward to working with her as the next Governor of Virginia.
The Honorable David Bulova
Virginia House of Delegates
Jenn is a thoughtful, powerful voice for our values and a champion for quality education and a clean environment for all Virginians. I have worked with Jenn for more than 15 years in the General Assembly. She knows how to bring people together to get things done and will make an exceptional Governor. I am proud to stand with her.
Deanna Fierro
Education Advocate, Richmond
Jennifer McClellan has always been a friend of the education community. She listens to not just the administrators or officials, but she listens to the teachers, the parents, and even the students. We can count on Jennifer to fight for our children and for the respect and resources our teachers and education professionals deserve.
Mayor Deanna Reed
Mayor of Harrisonburg, Virginia and After-School Program Director
For nearly two decades, Virginia Senator Jennifer McClellan has been one of the most reliable and consistent legislators and advocates for all Virginians in working to improve our quality of life in the areas of public safety, housing, health care, education, and so many others. It is for these reasons that I proudly announce my endorsement of Sen. Jennifer McClellan for Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Debra Gardner
Community Leader, Chesterfield
There are politicians and there are public servants, Jennifer McClellan is a public servant! In her 15 years in the legislature, she has never forgotten her charge to represent the people of Virginia and put all she has into helping to create a Virginia that is for all of us to enjoy. I am excited to have Jennifer McClellan as the next Governor of Virginia
Douglas Garcia
Education Advocate, Former Assistant Secretary for Education, Alexandria
I've known Senator McClellan over 18 years. As a first generation Latino graduate, I've always been impressed by her passion for public education and college affordability.
Erin Matson
Women's Rights Advocate, Former VP of National Organization for Women
Senator McClellan is the proven progressive Virginia needs to move forward. From health care to education to reproductive rights and racial justice, she leaves no one behind. Unapologetically, it's time to put this Black woman in the governor's mansion.
Faye O. Prichard
Ashland District Representatives, Hanover County
Senator Ghazala Hashmi
Virginia Senate, Richmond
Senator Jennifer McClellan has the vision, the experience, and the ability to lead Virginia forward. She knows how to build coalitions of trust and how to listen to varying viewpoints; her administration will ensure that the voices of Virginians are heard both inside the Commonwealth and nationally.
Glenda Scales
Community Leader, Blacksburg
When I met senator Jennifer McClellan over 5 years ago, I knew then that one day she will be governor of VA. She was very clear then about her passion for solving issues in the Commonwealth and what it would take to make change happen. I have never supported a political campaign, yet I decided right then, at that moment, I would be there to support senator McClellan. Why? Because she is genuine, impressively smart, and experienced. I trust her leadership. She is confident with who she is and what she stands for. She loves family and knows how to listen to others to navigate “win-win” opportunities for all people. With these qualities combined with her Faith I am confident she will be able to lead the Commonwealth.
Jacinta Greene
Alexandria School Board Member
Javaid Siddiqi, Ph.D
Former Virginia Secretary of Education and Chesterfield County School Board Chair
Throughout our lives and careers Jennifer and I have always connected when it comes to education issues. We both had parents who taught us that education is the bedrock of a successful community, and I have watched Jennifer as she has worked throughout her entire career to improve access of quality education to every person, regardless of their zip code. I believe in Jennifer's vision for Virginia and I fully support her campaign to be the next Governor of Virginia
Delegate Jeff Bourne
House of Delegates, Richmond
Jennifer McClellan fights tirelessly for a better Virginia. I have witnessed firsthand her exemplary leadership, her incredible brilliance, and her lifelong dedication to our Commonwealth. Richmond has benefited immensely from her stewardship and now it is time for her to lead Virginia. I am proud to endorse her to be the next Governor of our Commonwealth.
Jenefer Hughes
Chesterfield Commissioner of Revenue
"Jennifer McClellan is an experienced legislator, who has got things done, whether she served in the minority or the majority. Now, more than ever, we need those qualities of tenacity, empathy and advocacy in Virginia's state leadership and I am honored to support this remarkable woman as our next Governor."
Senator Jennifer Boysko
Member, Virginia Senate, Fairfax
Jim Hingeley
Albermarle Commonwealth Attorney
Jennifer McClellan is a champion for criminal justice reform. Fighting for a fairer system for over a decade, she's been way ahead of many others in recognizing the urgent need for reform. I've been honored to work with her on criminal justice issues, and I know her vision for a far more equitable and progressive Commonwealth is what we need in our next governor.
John Taylor Chapman
Alexandria City Council Member
Everyday city and county officials are working to understand the needs of our communities and work hard to solve them and move us forward. Having true partners at the state level can make all the difference in the world. Jennifer McClellan understands that although we are one Virginia, each community is different and she will work with local officials to do what is best for each of them.
Joseph Papa
Community Advocate, Richmond
Like the rest of the country, Virginia will have difficult work to do on the other side of the pandemic. I can think of few leaders more qualified to tackle the obstacles COVID-19 presents while also meeting the moment of addressing the racial and social justice reckoning we are finally experiencing. Sen. McClellan is a public servant who listens, and she has been an integral part of the progress Virginia has made in recent years. As Governor, I know she'll keep the Commonwealth moving forward.
Mayor Justin Wilson
Mayor, City of Alexandria
I have known and worked with Jenn for over 20 years, she is a pragmatic leader with a record of progressive accomplishments who will lead our Commonwealth forward.
Katherine Jordan
Richmond City Councilmember-Elect
Senator Jenn McClellan is an outstanding legislator with the experience, vision and tenacity to lead Virginia's recovery. I trust her to do what is best for my family and know she will be an active partner for local governments.
Delegate Kathy Tran
Virginia House of Delegates
Jennifer McClellan is a progressive leader with deep experience delivering results that lift up all Virginians. During my time in the General Assembly, I have been impressed by her persistent championing of women's equality and access to reproductive healthcare, racial justice, working families, and climate action. I am proud to endorse Jennifer's historic candidacy, which would make her the first Black woman to serve as Governor of Virginia. I am confident she will lead us boldly into the future.
Kati Hornung
Equality Advocate, Chesterfield
We have waited too long for our first woman governor, but Jennifer McClellan’s leadership makes it worth our wait. Her strength of character is matched by her intelligence, wisdom, and depth of experience, making her an ideal leader of whom we can be proud. Her ability to bring people together and sense of fairness will ensure we have a Virginia that works for everyone.
Katie Cristol
Arlington County Board of Supervisors
Since her first election fifteen years ago, Jennifer McClellan has been an inspiring exemplar: Not just that young Virginian women could be elected, but why they should be. She is a tireless, effective leader who has made the Commonwealth a more equal place for its residents and families, through her record of accomplishment on affordable housing, civil rights and family health. I am thrilled to stand with Jennifer McClellan for Governor, as she makes both progress and history for Virginia.
Kelli Lemon
Owner, Urban Hang Suite; Co-Founder of Black Richmond Restaurant Experience; Gubernatorial Appointee, Virginia Corporation Tourism Board
Delegate Ken Plum
Virginia House of Delegates
I have known Senator Jennifer McClellan for more than a couple of decades when she was a citizen activist, member of the House of Delegates and State Senate. I realized from the beginning she had a bright future in politics. She has the best command of Virginia's history than most anyone in public office. She is highly regarded. When Jennifer speaks, everyone listens for they know they are likely to learn something and for the clarity of her understanding of complex issues.
Lakshmi Challa
Immigration Attorney, Henrico
Dr. Lance D. Watson
Faith & Community Leader, Henrico County
As a Pastor, I look beyond just what someone says they will do, but I watch their actions. Over the years I have watched Jennifer, and I have watched her make principled decisions and helping people throughout the community. She truly wants what is best for Virginia and every Virginian regardless of race, religion, gender, ability, or socio economic status. I am proud to support Jennifer McClellan for Governor.
The Honorable Lawrence Webb
Falls Church City School Board Member
I am supporting Jennifer McClellan's campaign for Governor because of her commitment to K-12 education and support for full equality of the LGBTQ community
Leni Gonzalez
Latino Community Leader, Arlington
Jennifer has proven herself as an ally to all people across the Commonwealth. She believes that all Virginians deserve to be heard and know that their Governor wants them to thrive! Virginia deserves Jennifer McClellan for Governor.
The Honorable Linwood Lewis
Member of the Virginia Senate
"I've known Senator McClellan, as a colleague in the House of Delegates and in the State Senate, and as a friend, for years. I believe her record of leadership, bipartisanship and success as a legislator showcase how uniquely qualified she is to lead our Commonwealth in these unprecedented times. I have been honored to work alongside her on issues critical to the future of our Commonwealth, from the expansion of voting rights and access to healthcare through Medicaid expansion to clean energy innovation and criminal justice reform. Senator McClellan is respected and admired by her colleagues on both sides of the aisle and has proven herself to be community-minded and results-driven. It is my honor to endorse my friend and colleague Senator Jennifer McClellan in her campaign to become the next Governor of Virginia."
Faith Elizabeth "Liza" Walker Mickens
Great Granddaughter of Maggie Walker
I first met Senator McClellan about 10 years ago while visiting the state capitol,” Mickens said. “I remember she came in to talk to my classmates about her role in the House of Delegates. Her thoughtful, compelling demeanor reminded me of another female leader I had drawn inspiration from, my great great-grandmother, Maggie Lena Walker. Most people know Maggie Walker through her bank, but are unaware she was the first and sadly the last African American woman to run on a statewide ballot in Virginia. She once said, ‘The elevation of woman to her proper and rightful place has been the slowest work of the centuries.’ I recently gathered inspiration from Grandma Walker and Senator McClellan in my work ensuring Virginia would be the 38th and final state needed to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment. Now more than ever we need to stand with candidates who represent our interests, all of our interests; that is why I stand with Jenn.
Mahmud Chowdhury
Richmond Realtor
Senator Mamie Locke
Member, Virginia Senate
Marques Jones
Business Owner, Former Chair of Henrico Democratic Committee
In these challenging times, Jennifer McClellan is the proven leader we need to take Virginia into a more prosperous and equitable future. Her character and exemplary record of service to the commonwealth give me confidence, as a small business owner, that she will stabilize our economy and begin a period of economic grown allowing organizations like mine to raise wages to begin hiring once again
Megan Clark
Commonwealth Attorney, Prince Edward County
Senator McClellan truly works “for the people” and will not be swallowed or swayed by politics. Her previous work as a delegate and current work as a senator illustrate her dedication to tackling the tough issues facing the Commonwealth of Virginia. Senator McClellan understands that this is a pivotal time within the Commonwealth, and will boldly lead in the quest to rebuild trust, address oppressive policies, and solidify a successful future for everyone in Virginia.
Pastor Michelle Thomas
Faith & Community Leader, Loudoun County
Jennifer McClellan is going to put in the hard work needed to get things done. And she will make sure everybody has the same opportunities regardless of who they are or who they know.
Mike Hamlar
President & CEO - Hamlar Properties
Senator Monty Mason
Virginia State Senate
Morgan Goodman
Environmental Scientist & Former Candidate for Delegate (VA-55), Mechanicsville
As an Environmental Scientist, my whole life has been about the environment. I know the science of climate change and I know we must act. I trust Jennifer to be the Governor who will lead us to a better environmental and economic future. She will not only make lives better now, but help improve the lives of our children and lives of generations of Virginians
yet to be born.
Patricia White-Boyd
Roanoke City Council Member
"The people of Virginia need an advocate. With Jennifer we get someone who is capable of doing the work, with the heart of advocacy to make sure her administration looks out for the people of Virginia. I am happy to support Jennifer McClellan for Governor.
Hon. Patrick O. Gottschalk
Former VA Secretary of Commerce and Trade under Gov. Kaine
Coronavirus has made it painfully clear that our current economic situation is unlike any we have ever seen before. To build a future economy that works for all Virginians, we need innovative solutions from an experienced leader with a new vision. Jennifer McClellan is that leader and that is why we need her to be the next Governor of Virginia.
Patsy Watson
Grassroots Community Advocate
I am supporting Jennifer McClellan for Governor of Virginia in 2021 due to my admiration of her strong leadership during her public service in the House of Delegates and now the Virginia Senate. She has been a strong advocate for all Virginians and a powerful voice for education, racial equality, access to reproductive health care and criminal justice reform
Paul Berry
Public advocate and Reston community leader
I'm endorsing Senator Jennifer McClellan to be the next Governor of Virginia for all of the experience and creativity she dedicates to the public good. She is the leader we need to move the Commonwealth forward and I'm proud to support her vision for Virginia that is inclusive, prosperous, and equitable.
Delegate Paul Krizek
Virginia House of Delegates
No one is more prepared to lead our Commonwealth forward than Jennifer McClellan. I have followed her career in public service for many years and I am consistently impressed by her commitment, passion, effective leadership, and strong advocacy for the values Virginians care about: quality education for all, combating racial inequity, access to reproductive health, criminal justice reform, and the rights of workers just to name a few. She is a fighter for the underdog and her compassion knows no bounds. Senator McClellan has not just my strong endorsement, but also my support and assistance as she campaigns to be Governor.
Supervisor Phyllis Randall
Chairwoman, Loudon County Board of Supervisors
This is one of the easiest endorsements I've ever made. I've known Jenn since 2005, and I know that she will always fight for the right causes. Jenn and I are both mothers who care deeply about justice and education and want the best for our kids and for all children across Virginia. Sen. McClellan is a forward-thinking and committed leader, who is always thinking about what's next for Virginia and for her constituents. That's exactly what Virginia needs for our next governor: A leader with the vision and the values to fight for a better future for families in Loudoun County and across Virginia. I'm proud to support Jennifer McClellan for Governor and I can't wait to campaign with her in Loudoun County.
Rev. M. Randell Williams
Sr. Pastor, Shiloh Baptist Church, Ashland
We are in support of Representative McClellan because she cares about the totality of her constituents. She has worked on legislation for education to infrastructure to workers comp.
Issues that impact people in my community and congregation.
Robert N. Barnette Jr.
Community Advocate, Hanover
History has shown that where there is great progress, there is often a backlash by those in power. In order to continue or forward momentum and progress, Virginia needs a leader who listens and understands the needs of her community and will fight for all of us. I am proud to support Jennifer McClellan and her campaign to be the next Governor of Virginia
Rodney Robinson
2019 National Teacher of the Year
I am supporting Senator McClellan because she is a true advocate for children. She has proposed solid legislation to work towards ending the school to prison pipeline and she amplifies teacher and student voice. She is the best choice for educators, parents, and students in Virginia.
Dr. Rodney D. Waller
Faith & Community Leader, Richmond
As a member of the faith community, I often hear from members of my community when they are at the end of their rope. As a legislator Jennifer has always reached out to the faith community to discuss how she can help the people who need it most. That is what Virginia needs in a Governor.
Delegate Rodney Willett
Virginia House of Delegates
I have known Jennifer for more than 20 years and closely followed her trajectory to becoming one of Virginia's most thoughtful voices on the issues of the day. She has made Virginia a better place through her work in the legislature and she now is ready to do even more for the Commonwealth as our next Governor.
Sindy M. Benavides
Advocate
I'm thrilled and excited to support Jenn in her bid for Governor of Virginia. She will represent all constituents of our great Commonwealth and ensure that every person has a seat at the table.
Stephanie Wilkinson
Owner, Red Hen Lexington
As a restaurant owner, my business was hit hard by this pandemic. In my conversations with Jennifer, not only does she have a firm grasp of the totality of the issues business owners are facing, but she has plans that will help us get back on track. With Jennifer McClellan as Governor or Virginia, I am confident that small businesses like mine, will not only return, but will be stronger.
Stephen Adkins
Community Leader, Charles City County
I've known Senator McClellan for several years as my Senator. I was and continue to be struck by her desire to listen and understand the needs of all people. She is a true believer in reaching out to every member of the community and working with them to address their issues. I fully support Jennifer McClellan for Governor, she is exactly what Virginia needs.
Susan S. Platt
Government Affairs consultant, Founder of EmergeVA, Former Chief of Staff to Joe Biden
I've known Jenn for many years - since she was helping Democrats as YD Chair and as a leader of EmergeVA helping to elect more women of all background to public service. She is a proven leader who is dedicated to improving the lives of all Virginians and with the knowledge and drive to get it done.
Terron Sims, II
Vice Chair, DNC Veterans and Military Families Council
Senator McClellan is a longtime leader in our Commonwealth who has always put others before herself -- fighting the hard fights and doing good work with and for good people. I am honored to support my friend as she leads our Commonwealth in the active positive direction that is long overdue.
Tiffany Boyle
Commissioner of Revenue, Newport News
I've always believed that politics in its purest form, is about the people. Senator McLellan's background is people focused and service oriented. I'm supporting Sen. McClellan because as a mother of young daughter, a business owner, and my city's Commissioner of the Revenue, I know taxpayers need a Governor who understands, appreciates, and values all of us and will include us in her work towards a better Virginia.
Rev. F. Todd Gray
Faith & Community Leader, Richmond
Jennifer is an impressive and dedicated legislator who conscientiously approaches issues and works tirelessly, and in a bipartisan fashion to reach solutions. She is fully aware of Virginia’s history but also aware of what we, as a commonwealth can achieve in our future. She is one of the most exceptional persons I’ve met in public service and I’m proud to endorse her to be our next governor.
Toni Radler
Former chair of the Hanover Democratic Committee
Sen. Jennifer McClellan is one of the smartest and hardest working senators in the Virginia General Assembly. She is innovative and dedicated to serving Virginians. She is exactly the leader we need to serve as our next Governor and continue to move Virginia forward. That's why I'm endorsing Sen. McClellan and wholeheartedly supporting her candidacy.
Treney Tweedy
Lynchburg City Council
Jennifer listens! She genuinely understand citizen concerns, and takes those citizen concerns to heart. As the former Mayor of Lynchburg I know how important it is to have state leaders who listen to local leaders and our citizens.
The Honorable Viola Baskerville
Former Delegate and Secretary of Administration during Kaine Administration
I’ve known Jennifer for decades, and I encouraged to run for the 71st House District seat upon my retirement. I realized then that she was a natural leader. Jennifer embodies principled, authentic and knowledgeable leadership. She is well aware of Virginia’s past and deeply committed to a better and brighter future for everyone.
Ward Armstrong
Former Members and Democratic Leader, Virginia House of Delegates
Senator McClellan's years of experience in both the House and the Senate make her uniquely qualified to serve as our next governor. She represents a forward looking vision for the Commonwealth.
Dr. Wendy Klein
Physician & Health Equity Advocate, Richmond
At this time in our country, it is even more imperative that we have leaders in the state level that are committed to women's health and reproductive rights. Jennifer's commitment is exactly what Virginia needs and I am excited to share my endorsement for Jennifer McClellan for Governor.