Chantilly Lawyer Files to Run Against LeMunyon

Eric Clingan, a Chantilly lawyer, has declared his candidacy for state delegate in the 67th District.

The U.S. Air Force veteran, former public defender and partner at Clingan Tull PLLC, a Fairfax legal defense and family law practice, will look to unseat one-term incumbent Del. Jim LeMunyon (R) in next year's election.

Clingan, who has lived in Fairfax County for a decade, has filed as an independent, but plans to switch his party to Democrat after the 67th House Legislative District Caucus, which will be scheduled between Friday and Aug. 23, said Spencer Lee, Clingan's campaign manager.

He drew attention in December when, as a private attorney, he successfully defended a client against a ticket for passing a stopped school bus. Clingan exposed a loophole in the law, which the General Assembly closed in March.

“I am running because the 67th district needs a Delegate who will focus everyday on the issues that matter to our community," Clingan said in a statement. "Though Virginia faces challenges that require a disciplined fiscal approach, I believe we can do a better job upholding our quality of life here at home.”

The 67th District includes Chantilly, Centreville, and parts of Oakton and Loudoun County.