Clinton Jenkins wins second term in 76th House District race

Democratic Incumbent Clinton Jenkins secured another term in Virginia’s House Delegates on Tuesday night.

The Associated Press called the 76th District race overnight.

Republican challenger Michael Dillender garnered 15,043 votes but trails Jenkins by 9 percentage points, according to the state Department of Elections. Independent Craig L. Warren won over just 3% of votes.

Jenkins has totaled 18,178 votes with 30 of 32 precincts reporting as of Wednesday morning.

Jenkins was elected in 2019 and flipped the seat against longtime Republican delegate Chris Jones, who represented the district since 1997. If re-elected, Jenkins vowed to focus on health care, education, workers’ rights, voting rights, infrastructure, and other important issues.

[ Preview: In 76th House District, incumbent Democrat tries to hold off Republican and Independent challengers ]

Dillender is a retired Navy captain and financial planner, which he said gives him “unique insight” to improve the economy. According to his campaign website, Dillender will also prioritize issues including education, health care, transportation, public safety and COVID-19.

According to Virginia Public Access Project, Jenkins raised over $353,000 for his campaign as of Oct. 21 — Dillender with roughly $196,440 and Warren at $10,000.