Supervisor Penny Gross Wins Democratic Primary

Longtime Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross has bested newcomer Jessica Swanson in Tuesday’s Democratic primary.

Gross came in with 3,028 votes or 56.16 percent of the vote to Swanson’s 2,364 votes or 43.84 percent of the vote.

Gross will now face independent Mollie Loeffler, a former chair of the Mason District Council of Community Associations, in the general election in November.

See a map here of the Mason District.

Here’s a letter Swanson sent out to supporters Tuesday night:

Months ago, I decided to run for Mason District Supervisor because of all of the energy I heard from people like you about improving this community. During this campaign, I’ve spoken with thousands of you who shared my concerns about the direction of our county government, about needed investments in our schools, and about development decisions that haven’t always seemed to reflect the best interests of residents. And in those conversations, I heard a shared vision for the future that we all want to build here in Mason District.

I sincerely thank you for your support and everything you’ve done to support this campaign.

Although we weren’t victorious in tonight’s primary election, I am more committed than ever to that vision. I plan to remain deeply engaged with the Democratic party and in continued efforts to make our community stronger. My dedication to our community never hinged on the outcome of one election, and I will continue to work hard alongside you to effect change here in Fairfax County.

I am truly humbled by the more than 2,200 voters who turned out today to support our cause. Through your efforts today and in the months leading up to the primary, we have pushed forward the conversation about schools, development, and transportation. We have engaged thousands of our friends and neighbors on these issues. In what turned out to be a tough competition, high turnout ensures that the voices of voters like you will be heard.

I am filled with gratitude for all of you who helped us along this journey. And though our campaign is over, our work continues. Let’s keep trying to build a better community the same way we built this campaign -- together.

With gratitude,

Jessica