Press Release's

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(Norfolk, VA, June 6th 2026) Today, Mike made the decision to withdraw his name from consideration for the State Senate's 20th District race in 2027 and instead focus his efforts on serving the people of Norfolk by seeking election to Norfolk City Council, representing Ward 5, this November.

Mike believes that many of the challenges facing our community can be addressed most effectively at the local level, where leadership is closest to the people. He is committed to working alongside residents, neighborhood leaders, businesses, and community organizations to find practical solutions that improve the quality of life for all Norfolk citizens.

Over the coming months, Mike looks forward to meeting with residents throughout Ward 5 and across the City of Norfolk to listen to their concerns, discuss their priorities, and develop a vision that reflects the needs and aspirations of the entire community.

"Norfolk is my home, and I believe our city has tremendous potential," Mike said. "I am excited about the opportunity to serve Ward 5 and work collaboratively to address issues such as public safety, economic development, affordable housing, infrastructure, neighborhood revitalization, and ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we can build a stronger Norfolk for generations to come."

Mike thanks everyone who has supported his public service efforts and looks forward to earning the trust and support of Norfolk voters as he begins this new chapter of community engagement and leadership.

(Norfolk, VA, June 6th 2026) Sadly, our Governor has made little meaningful effort to work collaboratively with the General Assembly, including both the House Democratic Caucus and the Senate Democratic Caucus, to advance a responsible and equitable agenda for the Commonwealth. This includes passing a fair state budget, establishing a safe and regulated marijuana marketplace for Virginians, protecting the rights of public-sector employees to engage in collective bargaining, and continuing to ensure that Virginia remains one of the best places in the nation to raise a family, build a career, and grow a business.

Unfortunately, during the first five months of this administration, we have seen a troubling lack of engagement with legislative partners and stakeholders who are essential to governing effectively. Rather than fostering cooperation and building consensus, the administration has too often operated without the level of communication and collaboration necessary to achieve meaningful progress on the issues that matter most to Virginians.

Virginians deserve leadership that brings people together, respects the role of the General Assembly as a co-equal branch of government, and works diligently to advance policies that strengthen our communities, protect workers, expand economic opportunity, and improve quality of life throughout the Commonwealth. To date, this administration has fallen short of those expectations.

(Norfolk, VA, March 23rd  2026) During these uncertain times, it is deeply concerning that ICE is in Charlottesville with no apparent purpose other than to harass members of our hometown community. ICE should be focused on its true mission, not targeting and intimidating our neighbors. I am saddened by their presence in Charlottesville and urge them to leave immediately. Charlottesville is a welcoming and accepting community, and we will continue to stand by those values. Recent local reporting reflects that concerns about ICE’s presence and actions in Charlottesville have already become a significant public issue.

(Norfolk, VA, November 4th 2025) Mike responded to the election results from Tuesday night: " Virginia sent a clear message to the country that we reject the policies of the current Trump administration, and that we were offended that Governor Youngkin was just a yes man to the President.  I congratulate Attorney-General Elect Jones, Lt. Governor-Elect Hashmi, and the 13 new members of the House of Delegates that will be joining us in Richmond in January.  The people of Virginia issued a mandate on Tuesday night and now it is time for the Democratic leadership to follow through on it.  In regards to the Norfolk School Board race in Ward 3, I congratulate School Board Member-Elect Slaughter on her decisive victory tonight.  It shows that a message of hope will always prevail.  Tonight was a good night for Democrats and democracy in this state and we move forward to the 2026 General Assembly Session" 

(Norfolk, VA, October 15th 2025) I was saddened to hear Abigails answers in the debate last Thursday in regards to Del. Jones and the text messages that he had previously apologized for and accepted responsibility for.  Abigail had the option to unequivocally stand by her running mate and as opposed to that she chose to unfortunately distance herself from him.  This is not the type of Governor that I want, that will not stand up for those that have stood up for her.  This white privilege was on full display last Thursday and it's sad that she feels emboldened to throw her running mate under the proverbial bus. She is an embarrassment to the party and if she wins in November we need to watch out for her."