VA-07: After helping steer redistricting push, Helmer (D) seeks seat in proposed 7th District
Virginia Del. Dan Helmer launched his third congressional campaign on Wednesday, backed by a slate of Democratic leaders. Just a few hours later, he brushed aside accusations that he helped engineer a congressional district for himself, arguing instead that he did exactly what his party’s leaders elected him to do: win.
“My role was electing a Democratic majority two years ago so we could fight back against what Trump is doing and reelect it this year,” Helmer said in an interview with The Mercury, dismissing criticism that his congressional bid presents bad optics.
Helmer, 44, is seeking his party’s nomination in a newly drawn 7th Congressional District — a seat expected to favor Democrats if voters approve a constitutional amendment in April allowing mid-decade redistricting. The New York Times reported Wednesday morning that Helmer’s formal announcement was imminent.
The Fairfax Democrat, who has served in the House of Delegates since 2020 and chairs the House Democratic Caucus’ campaign arm, said his principal role was ensuring Democrats had the numbers to advance their priorities and “push back against” President Donald Trump.
https://virginiamercury.com/2026/02/18/after-helping-steer-redistricting-push-helmer-seeks-seat-in-proposed-7th-district/
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