Moran, Shuttleworth Vote in Today's Democratic Primary for 8th District

Just past 6 a.m. today, political newcomer , a candidate for the 8th congressional district, was one of the first voters to cast a ballot in the Democratic primary at the Madison Community Center precinct in North Arlington.

Shuttleworth, an Arlington resident, is running against incumbent Rep. , 8th District, to represent Northern Virginia in the U.S. House of Representatives. He said he is ready for a general election campaign. 

"We'd be completely energized for that," Shuttleworth said. "I'm up for that challenge."

Shuttleworth, with his wife Divonne, will campaign in Alexandria and Arlington today.

And in South Arlington, U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-8th) also voted at 6 a.m. at the Arlington County Division of Parks and Natural Resources, 2700 South Taylor St.

Is the incumbent nervous about today's primary? "I always worry and it keeps me energized," he told Patch. "I'm never complacent about anything, and for something that's worth it like this, it is worth working hard for and not being taken for granted."

When asked how much longer he plans to stay in Congress, Moran replied:
"At least two more years. It's a good question. I do feel very much invested in the community and I'll have to be convinced there is somebody in the running with my sense of values and vision. I can't turn it over to someone who doesn't have proven involvement in the community. That's the test, really." 

One person who may be interested? Alexandria Mayor Bill Euille, who is seeking reelection, recently expressed interest in Moran's seat, should it come up for grabs. "I would like to run for Jim Moran's seat when he gives that up, but I don't know when that is going to be," he told Patch from the Virginia Democratic State Convention on June 2.