Who can vote in today's Senate primary? Here's what you need to know
Firehouse primary open to any District 39 voter willing to sign Democratic pledge
Confused about whether you can vote in today’s Senate District 39 firehouse primary? You’re not alone.
Here’s the short answer: Any registered voter in District 39 can participate — but you must sign a pledge at the door.
Virginia does not have party registration, so there’s no list of “registered Democrats.” Instead, the party uses a pledge system. Before receiving a ballot, voters must sign a declaration stating: “I am a Democrat; I believe in the principles of the Democratic Party; and I do not intend to support, endorse or assist any candidate who is opposed to the Virginia Senate District 39 Democratic nominee in the ensuing election.”
Voters must also show proof of address or photo ID. Acceptable documents include a driver’s license, utility bill, voter registration card, bank statement or passport, among others.
Where to vote
Polls are open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at four locations. District 39 voters may vote at any site:
Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St., Alexandria
Charles Houston Recreation Center, 901 Wythe St., Alexandria
Aurora Hills Library, 735 18th St. South, Arlington
John Calvin Presbyterian Church, 6531 Columbia Pike, Annandale
Who’s on the ballot
Four Democrats are competing to replace state Sen. Adam Ebbin: Del. Elizabeth Bennett-Parker, former Del. Mark Levine, former Vice Mayor Amy Jackson and activist Charles Costen-Sumpter.
The winner will face Republican Julie Robbens Lineberry in the Feb. 10 special election.
Really helpful clarification on the pledge requirement. The lack of party registration in Virginia creates an intersting twist where participation hinges more on a statement of intent than formal affilation. This system seems designed to preserve openness while maintaining some party cohesion, tho it dunno if it actually filters out strategic crossover voters in practice. Worth noting how these procedural hurdles can quietly shape turnout patterns.