News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | September 16, 2026
Local News
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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Christopher K. Peace- Candidate for 97th District House of Delegates
Experience- Has served for last ten years in Virginia General Assembly. Served as vice-chairman of the Committee of General Laws, help write state budget, and is a ranking member on significant health reforms. Reason for Running- “Virginia needs leaders who support smaller government and lead with principle, honesty, hard work, and experience. As New Kent’s state delegate, I have remained true to these principles; this fall I am asking voters for the privilege to continue to lead our district.” Why should people vote for you?- “For ten years I have proudly represented all of New Kent. There are many highlights…
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Charles Gardner- New Kent candidate for Sheriff
Experience- Has 25 years in law enforcement field, with 21 years in New Kent. Military police background and Vietnam veteran; currently supervises courts, school resource officer and animal control. Reason for running- “I feel that I have something to bring to New Kent. I have the qualifications and background to serve citizens and save taxpayers money through my restructuring plan.” Why should people vote for you?- “I’m a good, honest, and fair person and that’s the way I’ve always been. I will treat everyone the same and create a good, working relationship between the sheriff’s office and the community.”
Beth D. Gregory- New Kent candidate for Circuit Court Clerk
Experience- Worked in New Kent Circuit Court Clerk’s Office from 2004-2009, including two years as chief deputy clerk. Currently works in Hudson Law Firm. Reason for running- “I’ve been asked by people to run and I enjoy the job. I work well with the sheriff’s office, judge’s office, and the general public.” Why should people vote for you?- “I know how to do the job. I provide stability and that makes a difference. I also have a great work ethic and I was born and raised in New Kent.”
Andrea Staskiel- New Kent candidate for school board, District 3
Experience- Leadership qualifications including marketing experience, undergraduate degree with concentration in management in leadership. Reason for Running- “I believe nothing is more important that the education of our youth. I believe we can always improve through high levels of communication and collaboration while maintaining a balance budget and fiscal conservatism.” Why should people vote for you?- “I would like the opportunity to represent my district as a member of the school board. I am an advocate by nature because I am person-centered yet business minded.” *Staskiel does not appear on the ballot but is running as a write-in candidate.
Amy P. Crump- New Kent candidate for Circuit Court Clerk
Experience- Worked for 18 years in New Kent Circuit Court. Spent 17 years as an assistant to former 9th Circuit Court Judge Thomas B. Hoover and since January worked in the clerk’s office as a deputy clerk. Reason for Running- “I have worked in the courthouse all my life. I want to keep it running smoothly and provide good customer service.” Why should people vote for you?- “I’ve got experience, I know the job, and I want to treat citizens friendly and respectfully when they come to the courthouse.”
Adriane Marshall- New Kent candidate for school board, District 1
Experience- Educational courses through James Madison University. Why are you running?- “It was a very important position to me. It has a lot of of decisions and responsibilities that affect the school system. I have two children in the system and I felt very strong about serving.” Why should people vote for you?- “I feel very concerned about the schools. As far as looking towards the future of the system, I am familiar with the budget and i want to help things grow in the schools.”
