News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | October 27, 2026
Local News
Candidate for New Kent County Treasurer: Charles Evelyn
Experience: Finance degree from Longwood University, served as treasurer of the Colonial Soil Conservation District for eight years, manages small business for more than 20 years. Reason for running: “I have been in public service for 12 years and I want to continue to do so. I feel that I have the experience and skill set to serve in this position.” Why people should vote for you: “I am a very genuine person. I have management experience and I want to upgrade the department. I want to look into online billing and will work with people in the community to…
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Candidate for Charles City Commissioner of the Revenue: Deborah Fuhrman
Experience: Experience 40 years customer service many platforms in commissioner’s revenue, works for county in public works office. Reason for running: At a point where I can give it my full dedication (unlike in 2015). More focused, more time, and more resources to get out there to talk to people. Why people should vote for you: We desperately need change in Charles City and its coming out of their tax pockets. We need to have other alternatives in income and want to work with BOS, all heads of government to bring ways without flooding the county and keeping it rural…
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Candidate for New Kent Commonwealth’s Attorney: Scott Renick
Experience: Thirty years of practicing in law, office in New Kent for 22 years, worked with the citizens of New Kent including time working as a court-appointed attorney. Reason for running: “I felt like this was the right time. With [current Commonwealth’s Attorney] Linwood Gregory retiring, I felt like that I have the right skill set to fulfill the duties and position.” Why people should vote for you: “I have a good strong base in the community. I have worked with New Kent Sheriff’s Office and will work with them in the future. I want to bring different ideas and…
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Candidate for Charles City Commissioner of the Revenue: Denise Burrell Smith
Experience: Worked in the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office since 1980, served on computer user advancement steering committee for software to assist smaller localities as well as larger localities in duties of Commissioner’s office. Reason for running: “I continue to serve the people. I want to move forward with progress in Charles City and also assistance with the status it has attained.” Why people should vote for you: “I’m dedicated as a public servant. I have the experience and leadership. I’m here for the community and for the people.
Candidate for New Kent Commonwealth’s Attorney: Todd DuVal
Experience: Twenty-eight years of law experience, founder of McDonald, Sutton, and DuVal, criminal work for 10 years, Appellate and Virginia Supreme court experience, published legal opinions in periodicals. Reason for running: “I was primarily encouraged to do so by fellow members of the Bar [Legal System]. I felt suited for the position and a lot of people have faith in me and they wanted me to run. Why people should vote for you: “My experience, demeanor, honesty, and knowledge of the law are traits that will assist with keeping this community safe.”
Candidate for Charles City Commonwealth’s Attorney: Wayne Orrell
Experience: Twenty years in criminal defense, worked in legislative office on criminal justice matters, involved with youth in the community for 20 years. Reason for running: “Charles City needs to have a prosecutor who understands both sides. I understand both sides and that is a question the community should answer when it comes to understanding both sides of the law.” Why people should vote for you: “I will represent everybody equally. The criminal justice reform is not just about the Commonwelath of Virginia. We haven’t had that and we need it.”
Candidate for New Kent County Sheriff: Joe McLaughlin Jr.
Experience: Completing four-year term as New Kent Sheriff, 38 years of experience with New Kent County Sheriff’s Office, continued community involvement. Reason for running: “I enjoy the job, this county, and the people I serve. I feel like New Kent is the best county in the state. I am proud of the people I work with not only in this county, but in public safety.” Why people should vote for you: “I feel like that as an office, we are making a true difference in the community. I want to continue to ensure having safety in our county by working…
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Candidate for Charles City Commonwealth’s Attorney: Rob Tyler
Experience: Twelve years as Charles City’s Commonwealth’s Attorney. Three years as assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in James City County. Reason for running: “I have enjoyed representing Charles City for the last 12 years and I feel like I’ve done a good job.” Why people should vote for you: “I play by the rules and I play fair. I work hard to make sure the right things happen in the Charles City courts.”
Candidate for New Kent School Board-District 5: Gail Hardinge
Experience: Life-long educator with 19 years in grades K-12 and 16 years in higher education, work involving developing educational programs for veterans, named Virginia School Board Association Regional Board member of the Year, chairwoman for CodeRVA, “Women in Innovation” award recipient from Virginia Information Technologies Agency. Reason for running: “I am passionate about providing the best learning environment for all students. Education is the key to a child’s door to the future, whether it be alternative routes, work force certifications, college, or sheltered employment for children with special needs. Parents and schools can work together to create continuing success for…
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Candidate for Charles City School Board At-Large: Royce Paige
Editor’s Note: Royce Paige did not submit any information for publication.
