(Franklin County, Va.) — State Sen. Bill Stanley says he is seriously considering a Congressional run after 5th District Rep. Tom Garrett abruptly dropped out of the race Monday.
The Franklin County Republican was first elected to the Virginia Senate in 2011 and represents the 20th District. That includes the cities of Martinsville and Galax, as well as Henry and Patrick counties, parts of Danville and a portion of five other counties.
Stanley’s term extends through November 2019. If he were to win the 5th District seat, a special election would need to be held to choose someone to finish out his term.
Afton resident and Nelson County distillery owner Denver Riggleman has announced his intention to seek the Republican nomination for Garrett’s seat. Sen. Bryce Reeves, a close friend of Garrett’s, has also expressed interest in the seat.
Leslie Cockburn is the Democratic nominee for the 5th District.