Republican Edward Monroe Is Running In The 48th District Race For The House Of Delegates

ARLINGTON, VA —Edward W. Monroe Jr. is teacher who lives in McLean with his wife and two children. He is also the Republican Party candidate running to represent the 48th District in the Virginia House of Delegates.

During the Nov. 2 general election, voters living in the 48th District, which represents Crystal City and Rosslyn areas in Arlington and the McLean area in Fairfax County, will have a chance to decide whether to vote for Monroe or the incumbent Democrat Richard C. "Rip" Sullivan. Early voting is already underway.

Patch asked each of the candidates running in the Nov. 2 general election to fill out the following profile:

Name

Edward W. Monroe Jr.

Position sought

Delegate for the 48th District

Party Affiliation

Republican

Family

Married with two school age children, and one dog.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

MS, Math and Science Education, Johns Hopkins; currently pursuing Masters in Eduation Leadership, George Mason University

Occupation

Teacher, 19 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Former Board Member and Chair, McLean Citizens Association, Env., Parks and Recreation Committee; Focus Group Member, Community-Wide Energy and Climate Action Plan; Vice-Chair, Exception Review Committee; Dranesville Representative, Environmental Quality Advisory Council

Why are you seeking elective office?

Finding the space to have important conversations is why I am running for office. Simply put, I did not like how Americans were talking to one another at the national level. I think conversations have improved, but there is more than enough to do. As a candidate, I have met so many wonderful people during the campaign, and I find that we commonly share values and value our communities.

Education is the most pressing issues facing our district and this is what I intend to do about them.

First, we need to recognize that we have a very good educational system. Generally, it is very inclusive, and provides a really great set of curricula at the various grade levels. There are also multiple opportunities, such as sports, bands, and clubs, to name a few. When proposing change to top-rated educational systems like those of Fairfax and Arlington Counties, we need not make it political. Rather, I propose we focus on what is best for our parents and students in meeting the next set of challenges. As an educator, I am in better position than most, to consider how best to move forward.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am new to politics, a fresh voice if you will. When I go to discussions with interest groups, I am honored to be apart of the conversation. For too long, we have had just one party talking to the issues. In the most recent legislative year, the number of bills passed exceeded that of previous years by over 35%. As a delegate, I would focus on market-based solutions, and efficiency in government processes for meeting the needs of our communities.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the district?

Failed is a strong word, and sets the stage for divisive politics. I would simply say that this is a change year and I am ready to serve.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Trends related to energy need our attention,. Let's ensure we prepare for our future by investing in diversity within our energy infrastructure. For example, we need to consider regional approaches to energy production, transmission, and utilization.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have taught in various communities like Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, and Fairfax County, VA. Also, I have worked overseas in a number of capacities, for example, with the US Peace Corps in southeastern Europe, and as an Education Consultant in the Middle East. Also, my wife is South African, so I have spent a good amount of time there with family. Wherever I go, I find the family unit is most important, irrespective of systems of government. If we agree that we can make our communities more equitable in terms of opportunities, then I am the person to do so.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Keep your head up, stay positive, be thankful for what you have.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Please get out to vote, and vote for me!

Related:

Candidate Profile: Rip Sullivan For VA House Of Delegates