Fairfax Sen. Saddam Azlan Salim Launches Campaign For Congress

FAIRFAX CITY, VA — State Sen. Saddam Azlan Salim, who represents Fairfax City, Falls Church, and parts of Fairfax County in the Virginia Senate, announced on Monday that he is running for Congress, saying his bid is rooted in “empathy, justice, progress and bold leadership for working families across the Commonwealth.”

With his announcement, the Fairfax Democrat enters a crowded primary race for the new congressional seat that would be created if voters approve the redistricting referendum in the April 21 special election. If the referendum passes, both the Democratic and Republican parties would hold primaries on Aug. 4.

Democratic candidates who have already announced they are running for the yet-to-be-created district seat are J.P. Cooney, Del. Dan Helmer (D-Burke), Dorothy McAuliffe, Del. Adele McClure (D-Arlington), Matthew G. Rainforth, Alex Thymmons, and U.S. Rep. Eugene Vindman (D), who represents the existing 7th Congressional District.

Five candidates will face off in the Aug. 4 Republican primary: state Sen. Tara Durant (R-Stafford), John Gray, Darius Mayfield, Douglas Ollivant, and Jacob Roginsky.

Salim, an immigrant who grew up in Fairfax County, framed the campaign around his family’s experience with homelessness and the support they received in Virginia.

“My family wouldn’t be here today if it wasn't for the goodness, empathy, and grace of the people of Virginia,” Salim said. “As a child, my family was homeless. The community opened their doors, public schools opened their classrooms, and the people of Fairfax refused to give up on a family like mine. That compassion gave us a chance to keep going — and it’s the reason I’m running for Congress today: to pay it forward and fight for your family the way you fought for mine.”

Growing up in Fairfax County, Salim has focused his work on issues including housing affordability and immigration-related policy. He also pointed to his 2023 primary victory over 16-year incumbent Sen. Chap Petersen (D-Fairfax), who outspent Salim 15 to 1.

Also See ...

• Salim Defeats Petersen In District 37 Senate Race: Unofficial Results
• Petersen Raises Over $1M In Bid To Defeat Challenger Salim In June 20 Democratic Primary
• Losers Spend More Than Winners In June 20 Democratic Primary In Fairfax: Campaign Finance

“I’ve watched people I love work two or three jobs and still struggle to afford rent, health care, or a car repair,” said Salim. “Those experiences aren’t talking points, they’re why I serve.”

In the Virginia Senate, Salim has led efforts on housing affordability and passed legislation aimed at building more homes so seniors can age in place and working families can live near jobs and schools, according to a release. He also championed and passed a three-bill package focused on ICE practices and local law enforcement’s role in immigration matters.

“With the challenges families face, rising costs, climate change, income inequality, and a broken justice system, we need leaders in Washington ready to take them head-on,” said Salim. “I never shy away from a fight. Every decision I make begins with one question: will this make life better, safer, and more secure for the people I represent?”

Salim said his congressional campaign will run as “a proud progressive Democrat” and is inviting supporters to join the effort. “If you believe everyone deserves a safe home, a good job, clean air and water, and a justice system that respects our rights, then I’m asking you to stand with me,” Salim said. “Together, we’ll build a future where every family doesn’t just get by but experiences progress.”