In Case You Missed It: Profile of McLean's Only Primary Race

The "mudslinging" Democratic primary in the Virginia Senate district that includes McLean even attracted the attention of The Washington Post last week.

"... It’s one of the most heated, unpleasant races in recent memory," said the Post story diving into the race that pits Arlington County board member Barbara A. Favola against lawyer Jaime Areizaga-Soto.

The primary is Aug. 23.*

“It’s much more negative than Arlington is used to, and it’s unfortunate that both candidates have gone down this road,” said Del. Patrick A. Hope (D-Arlington), who considered running for the 31st District seat and is staying neutral in the primary. “I wish they would focus on the issues,” the Post said.

"Just as car accidents draw gawkers, the contest to succeed retiring state Sen. Mary Margaret Whipple (D) has drawn significant attention, even in a year in which several other competitive primaries dot the region," the story said.

The 31st District is new to McLean. Until April, the 31st was totally in Arlington. As part of redistricting, McLean was stitched together with Arlington to form what some now call "The River District." The 31st is still anchored in Arlington but it hugs the Potomac River running from National Airport to Loudoun County.

We recommend the story to our neighbors.

Absentee Ballots Reminder: By Mail Ballot: Deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail: Aug. 16 at 5 p.m. For inclusion in the election, absentee ballots must be received in the Office of Elections by 7 p.m. on Aug. 23.

In-Person Absentee: Location: Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323, Fairfax, Va. 22035 (no off-site satellites)