Gretchen Bulova was elected on January 13, 2026, to represent the 11th House District in the Virginia General Assembly. She secured 68.79% of the vote against Republican Adam Wise. Wise previously ran against Delegate David Bulova in the November 4, 2025, General Election but did not win by over 15,000 votes.
Former Delegate David Bulova, who had held the position since 2006, resigned, creating a vacancy. Over his nearly 20 years as a delegate, Bulova championed legislation focused on improving transportation, reforming educational standards, and increasing fiscal transparency. He was appointed Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources in the Spanberger Administration. The City of Fairfax announced on December 12, 2025, that it had received a Writ of Special Election for the 11th House District. This ultimately led to the recent election of Gretchen Bulova, the wife of former Delegate David Bulova.
Her candidacy was significantly bolstered by substantial endorsements from influential figures within the party and the local community, including during the Democratic Party primary that took place within a matter of days. She received the strong backing of Congressman Walkinshaw, lending her campaign considerable credibility. In addition, she was endorsed by Mayor Catherine Read, and Chairman Jeff McKay, demonstrating deep support within the party membership hierarchy and a seamless transition from her husband.
Delegate Bulova’s core priorities centered on key issues affecting her constituents. She focused on combating the increasing cost of living to improve affordability for district residents. A major emphasis was also placed on school safety, where she proposed resources and measures aimed at creating secure learning environments for both students and staff. Furthermore, her platform demonstrated a strong dedication to proactive environmental stewardship, championing sustainable policies and initiatives designed to safeguard the region’s natural resources for the benefit of future generations.
In addition, Democrat Margaret Franklin secured the position, representing portions of Prince William and Stafford Counties, with a substantial 77% of the vote. Her Republican challenger, Verndell Robinson, lost after receiving 22.56% of the ballots. The vacancy in this district occurred after Governor-elect Spanberger appointed former Delegate Candi Mundon King as the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Combined with the general election results from November, the Democrats continue to retain a large majority in the House, maintaining a 63-36 lead.
