The Virginia House of Delegates’ District 57 – formerly the 56th – currently comprises parts of Goochland and Henrico counties. The 57th has been a Republican stronghold since 2001. David Owens has represented it since 2024.
In 2026, a new delegate will represent this district: Democrat May Nivar. Her election day triumph was a seismic shift left for the 57th, but she had lots of help along the way. In fact, May Nivar was the peak of a blue wave decades in the making.
Let’s recognize the twelve terrific candidates who stepped up—big time—for democracy in Virginia’s 56th/57th district over the past 20+ years:
- 2025 May Nivar flipped the 57th
- 2025 Democratic primary: May Nivar (winner) and Andrew Schear (we salute you!)
- 2023 Susanna S. Gibson
- 2023 Democratic primary: Susanna S. Gibson (winner) and Robert C. Shippee (we salute you!)
- 2021 Blakely Kathryn Lockhart
- 2019 Juanita Jo Matkins
- 2017 Melissa Miscione Dart
- 2017 Democratic primary: Melissa Miscione Dart (winner) and Elizabeth M. Drucker-Basch (we salute you!)
- 2009 James O. Towey
- 2007 Will F. Shaw
- 2005 P.L. Defur
- 2003 H.H. McGuire III
These candidates deserve our heartfelt thanks as well as a round of applause for their intrepid efforts and dedication to democracy. They may not have prevailed in their races, but collectively they paved the way for 2026 delegate May Nivar.
Sometimes, change means taking baby steps and planting seeds. Other times, it means dozens or even hundreds of candidates running for just one to reach the finish line.
In the nearby 59th district, represented by Independents and Republicans for the past twenty-five years, a similar blue wave is forming. It began with Rachel Levy in 2023 and continued in 2025 with Scott Konopasek running against long term incumbent Buddy Fowler. Whether it takes two more years or twelve, Democrats are working to flip the 59th like never before.
As for the 56th/57th District Democratic candidates who came before May Nivar, they may be out of the political limelight, but we won’t forget how they helped democracy burn brighter.
Take Action
- Know someone who has run for office unsuccessfully? Thank them and let them know you appreciate their dedication to serve in their community and build momentum for the future.
