Fairfield's Thornton endorses McClellan in Democratic gubernatorial race

Fairfield District Supervisor Frank Thornton is endorsing Jennifer McClellan in the Democratic gubernatorial primary. McClellan’s campaign made the announcement this morning. Thornton has represented the Fairfield District on the Henrico Board of Supervisors since 1995.

"I have known Jennifer for a long time and have watched her lead change, serve the greater Richmond community, and deliver generational progress for Virginia," Thornton said in his endorsement announcement. "Our Commonwealth is long overdue for a new perspective, and we need a governor who can get things done on day one. I know that Jennifer has the experience and perspective to lead Virginia forward. She's the champion Henrico needs."

McClellan represents Richmond City and parts of Henrico in the Virginia state Senate. She was reelected in 2019, and is now seeking the Democratic nomination to run for governor this November.

She is vying for the nomination against former state Del. Jennifer Carroll Foy, former Governor Terry McAuliffe, Del. Lee Carter, and Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax.

“I am truly honored to have received the endorsement of Supervisor Frank Thornton,” McClellan said. “I’ve known Frank for many years and am inspired by his decades of dedication to public service and community in Henrico. As the first Black member voted onto the Henrico Board of Supervisors in 1995, Frank’s support underlines the urgency of electing a new perspective to the governor’s office. I’m excited to bring a bold new vision to our Commonwealth as governor and the experience to build on the progress Virginia has made on day one.”

Republicans already chose Glenn Youngkin as their nominee in a nomination convention that took place last week. Democratic voters across the commonwealth will choose the nominee in a June 8 primary.

The other Democrat on Henrico's Board of Supervisors, Tyrone Nelson of the Varina District, is endorsing former Governor Terry McAuliffe in the race.