United States
I am a third-year Journalism and American History double major at Washington and Lee University, with an interest in how history shapes today’s legal and political systems and how it informs the present. Journalism allows me to explore this connection while communicating my ideas thoughtfully.
As the politics reporter for the Rockbridge Report, W&L's student-reported and student-produced news station serving Rockbridge County, Lexington and Buena Vista, I cover and produce stories local and state elections in Virginia weekly, working with other reporters and producers on deadline.
Virginia Military Institute’s superintendent told a committee that the school strives to be non-partisan and as “center line” as possible.
Buena Vista’s newly elected mayor and council members say voters want change, and they’re promising a more open and collaborative approach to city government. The new city leaders say they will focus on such issues as restructuring committees, increasing transparency and expanding public participation in council meetings.
All four winners will be sworn in in January. Jolley and another first-time winner, Duncan Gilbert, will join incumbents Lisa Kerr and Roy Mohler on the board.
Tuesday’s blue wave means it’s more likely that voters will consider constitutional protection for same-sex marriage, abortion and voting rights for felons in 2026.
Republican incumbents Terry Austin and Ellen Campbell are re-elected to the 36th and 37th Districts as Virginia voters keep the status quo.
Top issues in the Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors race include the county’s debt, its growth and preservation of its rural character.
The Republican candidate told Washington and Lee University students earlier this week that he would have a better chance of working with President Trump on behalf of Virginia than his opponent.
Buena Vista’s mayoral race highlights two different views and solutions to transparency, taxes and infrastructure. Incumbent Tyson Cooper says he is proud of the city’s progress in his term. Challenger Jesse Lineberry says he is worried about Buena Vista’s future.
Candidates vying to represent the 36th and 37th districts in the House of Delegates participated in a forum sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce.
Incumbent city council members want to continue their ongoing projects, but four challengers prefer to push Buena Vista forward by focusing on taxes, infrastructure and the budget.