Democrat Kyle McDaniel Enters At-Large School Board Race In Fairfax

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — Kyle McDaniel announced on Tuesday that he was a candidate for the at-large seat on the Fairfax County School Board and is seeking the endorsement of the Fairfax Democrats.

"I am proud to announce my campaign for the Democratic endorsement for the Fairfax County School Board At-Large," McDaniel said, in a release on Tuesday." Over the last four years, our public schools have faced unprecedented challenges. I am running because every child deserves a high-quality education, regardless of ZIP code, in a safe and welcoming environment. My top priority is helping every child live up to their full potential and realize their unique talents.”

In 2019, McDaniel ran as an independent in the race for the Springfield District seat on the school board after leaving the Republican Party over comments made by former President Donald Trump. In addition to being a former top aide to Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, he also served for two years on the GOP's State Central Committee.

In the 2019 race, McDaniel received 2,898 votes (7.4 percent) compared to Elizabeth Schultz's 16,517 votes (41.9 percent) and Laura Jane Hoffman, who won with 19,910 votes (50.5 percent), according to the Virginia Department of Elections.

"It's no secret that parents, teachers, and kids struggled to weather the COVID pandemic," McDaniel said, in a release. "We have an opportunity to learn, do better, and emerge stronger. As a parent, I understand that moms and dads across the County are frustrated. Our teachers and staff are tired. Our children are struggling. I am running to lead our schools out of a post-COVID fog, and into a bright tomorrow."

McDaniel is running against fellow Democrats Abrar Omeish, the incumbent at-large member on the school board; Lawrence Webb, a former member of the Falls Church City School Board and former School Board Member Ilryong Moon.

"In Fairfax County, we are proud of our public schools, and we have an opportunity to chart a new course," McDaniel said, in a release. "Over the coming months, I will lay out my vision for FCPS; it is one of hope, optimism, and courage. A vision where equality and excellence coexist, and school lunch debt is eliminated. We'll bolster academics, and build a world where active shooter drills are a thing of the past. Together, we will accomplish great things."

The Fairfax Democrats will be choosing which candidate the party will be endorsing for the at-large seat on the school board and the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District Directors during the 2023 Democratic Endorsement Caucus.

Online voting will take place from May 13, at 10 a.m. to May 20, at 4 p.m. In-person voting will take place on May 20, from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., at locations to be announced at a future date.

Those wishing to cast a ballot in the caucus must be a registered voter and must be pre-register for the caucus. Pre-registration opens on April 10, at 10 a.m., and closes on May 5.