News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | April 2, 2026
Local News
Laura Ecimovic- New Kent candidate for Commissioner of Revenue
Experience- Ten years as deputy Commissioner of Revenue and nine years as Commissioner of Revenue. Five years of real estate experience. Reason for running- “I felt I had something to offer the county. I enjoy public service and I have the experience. I believe there are still things I can do to make this officer better.” Why should people vote for you?- “I feel I have represented the county with honesty and integrity. People can come up to me with questions and concerns and I want people to know my office has an open, honest policy to support the citizens…
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Kristin Swynford- New Kent candidate for School Board, District 2
Experience- Ten years of leadership experience in corporate world; works with organizations in navigating changing environments. Experience in managing operational budgets and has successfully lead teams to produce results in areas that presented systemic challenges. Reason for running- “I am running for school board because I am excited about the educational opportunities in New Kent. Our schools are experiencing the ‘digital conversion’ and presents an exciting time for everyone who touches the educational process including administrators, teachers, students and parents. I am committed to ensuring that our teachers and students are provided the opportunity to excel in an increasingly complex…
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K. Scott McPhail- New Kent candidate for Circuit Court Clerk
Experience- Three years working in New Kent Circuit Court Clerk office. Ten years of managerial experience in outside agencies. Reason for running- “I enjoy the work that I do. I grew up in New Kent and I enjoy maintaining and learning about the history and record-keeping of New Kent.” Why should people vote for you?- “I feel like I’m the most experienced for the position. I know the different aspects and I believe my managerial experience outside the clerk office can help in this position.”
J. Joseph McLaughlin Jr.- New Kent candidate for Sheriff
Experience– Has 34-plus years with New Kent Sheriff’s Office. Began in 1981 as deputy and worked within each department; graduate of Forensics Science Academy. Reason for running- “I love the county and I love my job. I can offer more to the county, the Sheriff’s Office, and other areas, as well as other agencies that I am currently involved with.” Why should people vote for you?- “I think I”m the best candidate for the job. I have experience, the management skills, and have saved taxpayer money by applying for grants to assist the sheriff’s office.”
Hugo Reyes- Candidate for 3rd District State Senate
Experience- Has worked with other candidates who currently preside in office; first public run. Specializes in cyber-security policies. Reason for running- “The opposition doesn’t reach out to the constituents to hear them out. I believe it is time for a change.” Why should people vote for you?- “I am big on early education so I want to see students learn to read and write early on. I am also looking to bring down the cost of education at the college level and that voting for me will get these things accomplished.”
Tommy Norment- Candidate for 3rd District State Senate
Experience- Severed on James City board of supervisors 1987-91 and has served on Virginia Senate since 1991. Serving as Senate Majority Leader; has 25 years of government experience. Reason for running- I know I can continue to be an effective advocate and represent the people of the Third District. I have worked to deliver balanced budgets that address the needs of the communities and the Commonwealth. Why should people vote for you?- I know the needs of the entire region and the unique challenges we face in addressing them. They know I will not only be able to fight effectively…
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Herbert Jones- New Kent candidate for Board of Supervisors, District 4
Experience- Twelve years as New Kent County treasurer that helped initiate automated services. Thirty years in the military, including two tours in Iraq. Reason for running- “New Kent has a great deal of potential. I just don’t feel we have a supervisor in District 4 who can push us in the direction to provide opportunities and infrastructure we need.” Why should people vote for you?- “I’m forward-thinking, decisive, and lead with a collaborative approach in everything. I believe in continuous improvement and will help improve the county and be part of a transparent government.”
Gail Hardinge- New Kent candidate for school board, District 5
Experience- Thirty years in education, with 19 years of service in K-12 and higher education. Currently completing 11th year on New Kent School Board. Reason for running- “I believe it is in our schools’ best interests to have a mix between board members with experience and those who may come in. I believe I have the qualities to work collaboratively with all members on the school board.” Why should people vote for you?- “I believe my work experience and passion for K-12 make me an ideal candidate. I will also work closely with the state and federal levels to see…
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Erica Lawler- Candidate for 97th District in House of Delegates
Experience- Six and a half years of work in Virginia Public Universities (VCU and College of William & Mary). Has worked in departments including research, negotiations, financing, and budgeting. Reason for running- “I saw Delegate Christopher Peace unopposed and I said I can do more. Competition in election is the best way to decide and hear the voice of the citizens and see what they want.” Why should people vote for you?- “I have the background for the position and I have different approaches that are suitable to hold the position.” (Can be seen at www.ericamlawler.com)
Donna Williams- New Kent candidate for Treasurer
Experience- Nine years of experience in New Kent’s treasurer’s office including serving as chief deputy. Certified by the Treasurer’s Association of Virginia since 2011 and reconciled the general operating fund for state budgets since 2008. Reason for running- I have proven leadership skills, created all current job descriptions, and trained employees. The county is growing rapidly and I have the energy and qualifications to make sure we are current with the newest technology and state laws. Why should people vote for you?- “I have the qualifications and certifications (can be viewed at www.williams4treasurer.com). I care about my community and I…
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