Republican David Owen holds a narrow lead in the Virginia House race over Democrat Susanna Gibson, who has drawn attention after revelations that she had sex with her husband on a porn website , but the front-runner dropped out of the race too early to win the election. show off.
With all 100 House seats up for grabs according to the 2020 census, Gibson is running against Irvin in one of the most competitive districts in the state.
In September, many political scientists were dismissive of Gibson’s chances after news outlets reported her involvement in live-streamed sex events, which involve soliciting payments from viewers in exchange for certain acts.
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But Gibson, a nurse, refused to drop out of the race and accused Republicans of dirty politics in exposing her behavior. She has largely ignored the accusations and focused on abortion rights, which Democrats say could be at risk if Republicans gain control of the Legislature. Republican governor.
In this image from video, Virginia legislative candidate Suzanne Gibson speaks at the Women’s Summit in Virginia Beach, Virginia, in September 2022. Gibson has condemned the release of a live video of her and her husband having sex on a porn website.
The race is seen as one of several that could decide control of the House. But even if Irving holds on to his victory, Republicans will lose control of the House of Representatives nationwide. The Associated Press predicts Democrats will win at least 51 of the 100 seats in the House of Representatives.
FILE – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and District 24 Senate candidate Danny Diggs speak to supporters after an early election rally in Newport News, Virginia, September 20, 2023. Republicans have a slim majority in the House of Representatives, while Democrats have a similarly slim majority in the state Senate.
These legislative victories would allow Democrats to block Youngkin’s policy agenda, although they would have to work with him to advance their own.
Sonny Yeary, 59, a graphic designer in Henrico, said he voted directly Republican, including for Gibson’s opponent Irvin. Yerry said he probably would have voted for Irving anyway, but that Gibson’s sex tape bothered him.
“That’s how it worked out,” Yerry said. “If it was already there, that would be one thing. But don’t act like a health lady and let it get out.”
Donna Taylor, 54, an office manager in Henrico County outside Richmond, said she voted for Gibson.
“I think if we can live with centuries of Republican scandals, what she does to consenting adults and her private lifestyle doesn’t affect my view of her and her ability to do the job she promised. Ability,” Taylor said.