GOP Candidate Running For Connolly's Congressional Seat In 11th District Race

FAIRFAX, VA — Republican Michael Van Meter threw his hat into the ring on Monday, declaring officially that he was running to be his party’s candidate in the 2026 race for Virginia’s 11th District congressional seat.

“This isn’t just my campaign, it’s our collective journey,” Van Meter said. “It’s about us. Our community. Our future. We are better together, and together, we will drive change.”

The announcement comes after incumbent U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D) announced he would not seek reelection because of health concerns. Last November, Connolly revealed that he'd been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and was receiving chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment.

Van Meter offered his “thoughts and prayers” to the congressman and his family, in his campaign announcement. Although Van Meter was defeated by Connolly in the 2024 race, he garnered more votes than any other opponent vying for the 11th District since 2008.

“Van Meter’s campaign breaks down party barriers, uniting Republicans, Democrats, and Independents under one common goal,” according to his campaign. “He understands that while our paths may differ, our destination remains the same. Together, we can build a community that is not only stronger but also more united.”

During his 20-year career with the FBI, Van Meter served in many influential roles, according to his campaign, including being an instructor, an adjunct professor for the University of Virginia, and program manager of the National Joint Terrorism Task Force, Civil Aviation Security Program.

Van Meter earned a master’s degree in addiction counseling in 2022 and dedicated himself, since his retirement from the FBI, to combating addiction. He serves as a full-time behavioral therapist at a hospital in Northern Virginia.

Although Van Meter is the sole Republican to declare his candidacy in the 11th District race, two Democrats have come forward hoping to succeed Connolly: Supervisor James Walkenshaw (D-Braddock) and State Sen. Stella Pekarky (D-Centreville).