Fighting For Federal Workers Top Of List For Candice Bennett: VA 11th District Race

FAIRFAX, VA — If elected to Congress, Candice Bennett said she will be fighting for the federal workers and contractors who have been targeted, silenced, or wrongfully removed since President Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20.

"I’m running for Congress to fight for those workers — to get them back to work, restore their rights, and make sure no administration ever weaponizes the federal workforce again," she said. "This isn’t just about jobs; it’s about democracy. The civil service is the backbone of good government, and if we don’t defend it, we risk losing the very systems that keep corruption in check.

Bennett is one of 10 Democrats running to succeed former U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11th), who died of esophageal cancer on May 21. A special election has been scheduled for Sept. 9 to fill the vacant seat in Congress.

As part of its coverage of the June 28 unassembled caucus, also called a "firehouse primary," hosted by the the 11th Congressional District Democratic Committee, Patch invited each of the nine candidates on the ballot to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they're the best person to fill the job they're running for. The following are Bennet's responses.

What is your name?

Candice Bennett

What will be your age on election day?

49

What is your occupation and the number of years you've worked in this field?

Deputy Executive Director, Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services (an affordable housing non-profit in Fairfax County), 10 years

What is the single issue that defines your candidacy?

The single issue that defines my candidacy is fighting for the federal workers and contractors who have been targeted, silenced, or wrongfully removed since January 20th.

As the spouse of a federal employee and veteran, I’ve seen up close how dangerous it is when political leaders try to undermine the nonpartisan civil service. The Schedule Policy/Career directive attempts to give political appointees unchecked power to fire career experts—replacing independence and accountability with loyalty and fear. People who dedicated their lives to serving the public are being pushed out simply for doing their jobs with integrity.

I’m running for Congress to fight for those workers—to get them back to work, restore their rights, and make sure no administration ever weaponizes the federal workforce again. This isn’t just about jobs; it’s about democracy. The civil service is the backbone of good government, and if we don’t defend it, we risk losing the very systems that keep corruption in check.

I won’t stay silent. I’ll fight for justice, restoration, and a government that serves the people—not the political whims of those in power.

What makes you the best candidate to represent the Democratic Party in the Sept. 9 special election?

I’m the best candidate to represent the Democratic Party in the Sept. 9 special election because I bring both real-world experience and deep community roots to this moment. As a Fairfax County Planning Commissioner, housing advocate, nonprofit leader, and small business owner, I’ve spent over two decades delivering results that directly impact people’s lives. I’ve managed federal programs, fought for affordable housing, and supported working families every step of the way.

I’m also the spouse of a federal employee and veteran, and I understand what’s at stake when politicians attack our civil service, threaten reproductive rights, and undermine our democracy.

Democrats need a candidate who will not only fight for our values—but who knows how to get things done. I’m not here for soundbites. I’m here to serve, to lead with integrity, and to build a government that works for everyone, not just the well-connected. I’m proud to carry the Democratic banner in this race—and I’m ready to win.

What impact has the Trump administration's second term had on the 11th District so far and how would you advocate for your constituents while in the minority?

Donald Trump’s second term has already harmed the 11th District—especially through his renewed push to gut the civil service. Thousands of our neighbors in Northern Virginia are federal workers or contractors. When they lose their jobs or face political purges, it doesn’t just hurt their families—it sends shockwaves through our entire economy.

From small businesses to childcare providers to local governments, so much of our region depends on a stable, functioning federal workforce. When federal employees are pushed out, furloughed, or forced into silence, it’s not just a personnel issue—it’s an economic crisis. Jobs are lost. Spending drops. Communities suffer.

Even in the minority, I will fight relentlessly to protect these workers and the broader local economy. I’ll elevate their voices, build coalitions, and use every legislative and oversight tool to hold bad actors accountable. I’ll advocate for fair budgets, strong protections, and policies that recognize the economic engine that our federal workforce represents.

This district can’t afford silence—and I won’t stay quiet.

What To Know About Democratic Party Caucus

On June 28, the 11th Congressional District Democratic Committee is hosting an unassembled caucus to determine which of the nine candidates in the race will represent the party on the special election ballot: Planning Commissioner Candice Bennett (D-At-Large), Dan Lee, Leo Martínez, Amy Papanu, State Sen. Stella Pekarsky (D-Centreville), Dr. Priya Punnoose, Amy Roma, Del. Irene Shin (D-Herndon) , or Supervisor James Walkinshaw (D-Braddock).

All registered voters in the 11th Congressional District may cast a ballot on Saturday, June 28, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., at 17 voting locations. Early voting will take place 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on June 24, 25 and 26 at the Fairfax County Government Center.

The caucus winner will represent the Democratic Party in the Sept. 9 special election to fill the vacant seat in Virginia's 11th Congressional District.

The 11th Congressional District of the Republican Party of Virginia will be hosting a District Canvass on Saturday, June 28 to choose its special election candidate.

The 11th Congressional District seat has been vacant since incumbent U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11th) died of esophageal cancer on May 21.
Related:

• Democrat Dan Lee Prioritizes Medicare For All In 11th District Race
• Candidate Questionnaire: Democrat Amy Roma Seeks 11th District Congressional Seat
• Amy Papanu On Democratic Caucus Ballot For 11th District Congressional Seat
• Irene Shin Running In 11th District Congressional Race: Candidate Questionnaire
• Walkinshaw Runs In 11th Congressional District Race In Democratic Caucus
• Martínez On Democratic Caucus Ballot For 11th District Congressional Seat
• Democrats, GOP To Choose Candidates For 11th Congressional District Special Election
• 11th District Voters Will Cast Ballots In Special Election To Fill Congressional Seat
• Choosing Connolly's Successor In Congress: What To Know
• VA Congressman To Retire As Cancer Returns Following Treatment