Yes, Virginia, Rural Democrats are Real

Closing out 2025, New Rural Virginia Podcast welcomes Pete Barlow, a candidate for U.S. Congress in Virginia’s 6th District, and inaugurates our new Rural Prosperity conversation series with a discussion on the future of the Commonwealth.

Learn more: www.pete-barlow.com

Happy Thanksgiving, y’all! 🦃 🎙️ 🦅

This week, Larry and Parson have a post-election conversation with Lynlee Thorne, Political Director of Rural GroundGame, on the importance of community voices, the impact of storytelling, and what’s being discussed on the frontlines of rural Virginia.

Learn more: www.ruralgroundgame.org jYcu3MkACSJDWS5mYI7n

Roberta Thacker Oliver, Chair of the Virginia Democratic Rural Caucus, joins the New Rural Virginia Podcast to reflect on Election 2025, discuss the future of rural organizing, and share insights on building a stronger, more connected Commonwealth.

As the countdown to Election Day continues, co-hosts Parson Brown and Larry Wohlers follow up with HD 61 candidate Jac Bennington, a teacher, Army veteran, and National Guard pilot. The conversation explores what he is hearing from voters, the tone of this year’s races, and how voices from rural Virginia are shaping campaigns and leadership across the Commonwealth.

Learn more about Jac Bennington’s campaign at: www.benningtonforvirginia.com

Donna Littlepage, candidate for Virginia House District 40, returns to New Rural Virginia podcast to share updates from the campaign trail and discuss the rising cost of living, access to quality healthcare, and the need for bipartisan cooperation in Richmond. As election day approaches, she offers her perspective on the recent government shutdown and the importance of finding common ground in the legislature.

Learn more: Littlepage4VA.com

A lifelong Virginian, former mayor, and educator with over 26 years in public education, Mary Person has led initiatives for free community college, first-time homebuyer programs, and safer neighborhoods. She’s focused on strong public schools, accessible health care, and economic growth for all Virginians.

Learn more: www.PersonForDelegate.com

Delegate Josh Thomas is a Marine Corps veteran, attorney, and public servant representing Virginia’s 21st House District. He focuses on equitable housing and accountable growth and shares insights on the impacts of federal funding reductions.

Learn more: www.JetforVA.comhttps://seedandspark.com/fund/river-maid#story

Joy Powers, candidate for Virginia House of Delegates District 51, rejoins the New Rural Virginia Podcast to discuss early voting and her H.O.M.E. plan — Healthcare, Opportunity, Market Affordability, and Education.

Learn more: www.JoyForVA.com