James DeVita Running For Arlington Board In Democratic Primary: Candidate Questionnaire

ARLINGTON, VA — James A DeVita says the lack of business coupled with rising taxes is the biggest issue facing Arlington County voters. He advocates for bringing new business into the county to lower taxes for everyone.

DeVita is one of three candidates running in the Aug. 4 Democratic Party primary in the Arlington County Board race. He faces incumbent Board Member Matthew D. “Matt” de Ferranti, and fellow challenger Julie E. Farnam. Early voting begins on Thursday, June 18.

As part of its coverage of the 2026 election, Patch asked each of the candidates in the county board race to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they're the best person to represent their party on the Nov. 4 ballot. The following are DeVita's responses.

Your Name

James A DeVita

Position sought

County Board

Age as of Election Day

67

Campaign Website

www.devitaforcountyboard.com

Family

Wife and two daughters

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

Education

BA UMass '79, JD Georgetown Law School '82

Occupation

Trial lawyer, 42 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

none

Why are you seeking elective office?

I want to help people

The single most pressing issue facing Arlington County is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Lack of business\Rising taxes- Bring in new business to lower taxes

What makes you the candidate who best represents the Democratic Party on the Nov. 3 ballot?

I have gotten more votes in a contested primary than any other candidate

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

Taxes keep going up, 24 % commercial vacancy rate

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I want to increase public safety by filling the vacancies in the police, fire and sheriff's dept's

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Worked for the Justice Dept, Atty General, my own law practice

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Never quit

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

No one will work harder for you!