Politics of Virginia

The politics of Virginia have followed major historical events and demographic changes in the commonwealth. In the 21st century, the northern region has become more liberal in attitudes and voting, constituting a reliable voting bloc for Democrats and joining population centers in the Richmond Metropolitan and Hampton Roads areas to dominate the state. Political orientation varies by region, with the larger cities and suburban areas voting Democratic and the rural areas voting Republican. The southern, rural regions have remained Republican. Despite upset Republican victories in the 2021 elections, Virginia is usually characterized as a blue state on the federal level, having not elected a Republican president since 2004 or a Republican senator since 2002.

Eight presidents of the United States were born in Virginia, more than any other state. In fact, four of the first five presidents were born within its boundaries. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor, and Woodrow Wilson were all Virginians at birth. Numerous other influential politicians, such as Patrick Henry, an American Founding Father, have also come from Virginia.