News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | September 16, 2026
Local News
Ray Davis- New Kent candidate for Board of Supervisors, District 5
Experience- Has served four terms on county’s board of supervisors, including four years as both chairman and vice chairman. Worked for Virginia Department of Agriculture for 30 years. Reason for running- “I believe I have the best experience dealing with everyday people. I felt I had four more years to give and this will be my last time running for election. You got to have a fire in your belly to do this and I believe I can do this for four more years.” Why should people vote for you?- “I’m going to work hard to keep New Kent prosperous….
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Patricia Paige- New Kent candidate for Board of Supervisors, District 3
Experience- Thirty-five years of management experience in different civilian companies. Retired 21 years from U.S. Army Reserve. Reason for running- “I’ve heard comments from citizens that it takes too long to get issues resolved and it appeared to be an apathy. I think we need excitement in our government and we need a new style, common sense government.” Why should people vote for you?- “People should vote for me because I’m a committed, dedicated person. I am in support for programs to help senior citizens, I am a great listener, and I am a fighter.”
Norma Holmes- New Kent candidate for Treasurer
Experience- Forty years in New Kent’s Treasurer’s Office, including serving the last four as county treasurer. Served as interim treasurer for two years and has worked in every capacity within the office. Reason for running- “My professional experience, long-term New Kent government service, and community involvement qualify me to build on my record to continue to serve New Kent.” Why should people vote for you?- “I have integrity, experience, leadership, and service. I am committed to ensure that all operations in the treasurer’s office are performed at the highest standards possible.”
Linwood Gregory- New Kent candidate for Commonwealth’s Attorney
Experience- Forty-one years in law, including 26 years serving as New Kent’s Commonwealth’s Attorney. Reason for running- “I enjoy what I am doing. I believe I do a reasonably good job and there have been many changes over my time here. I enjoy working with people and try to be part of the law enforcement team.” Why should people vote for you?- “I intend to strive to do an excellent job for New Kent County and I want to continue to make New Kent a safe place to live.”
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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