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FIRST ON FOX: A survivor of Soviet-era communism is entering the race to succeed the late Rep. Gerry Connolly, a Democrat from Virginia. Karina Lipsman, who currently works for the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, shared her inspirational story with Fox News Digital.
Lipsman’s family fled the USSR during her childhood, beginning a new life in the United States. Raised by a single mother in low-income housing in Baltimore, Lipsman embodies the struggles and triumphs of immigrant life.
“We ran from socialism and toward the American dream. America stood for freedom, hard work, and the chance to build something better,” Lipsman remarked. Now a Republican, she emphasized her journey as one of resilience and determination.
Upon their arrival in the U.S., Lipsman and her family faced the daunting challenge of learning a new language. “We didn’t speak English when we arrived. But I worked hard, kept my head down, and earned every step to get to where I am today. I became a citizen at 18. I put myself through undergrad and grad school,” she noted.
Views on Current Political Climate
Lipsman commended former President Donald Trump, expressing concern that the United States is heading down a path resembling the one her family fled. “We have seen an expanding government, a shrinking middle class, and a growing dependence on the state. We are sliding away from what made this country great,” she stated, underscoring the importance of reversing these trends.
According to Lipsman, Trump serves as a disruptor in the political landscape, emphasizing the need for more allies who focus on policy rather than fame. “The political class is too focused on fame, clicks, and climbing ladders. We need leaders who prioritize the hard work necessary to fix what’s broken,” she asserted.
Special Election Details
Lipsman is the latest Republican candidate to join the contest for Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, a stronghold for Democrats located in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. This special election was announced by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, with the election scheduled for September 9.
The late Rep. Connolly succumbed to esophageal cancer in late May. He had represented the district since 2009 and previously indicated that he would not seek re-election due to health issues.
Prior to Connolly’s tenure, the seat was held by Republican Tom Davis from 1995 to 2008. Since then, the district has significantly shifted toward the left, as indicated by the nonpartisan Cook Political Index, which rates the district D+18. Connolly defeated Republican challengers by over 30 points during the last three election cycles.
Lipsman’s Previous Campaign and Current Opponents
Before entering this race, Lipsman contested for the House in Virginia’s neighboring 8th Congressional District but lost to incumbent Rep. Don Beyer, a Democrat. Lipsman believes that constituents are eager for leaders who can deliver results. “People are hungry for workhorses in Congress, and I can meet that demand,” she stated with conviction.
A Crowded Field of Candidates
The race for Connolly’s seat features significant competition among Democratic candidates. Among them is James Walkinshaw, a Fairfax County supervisor who received Connolly’s endorsement prior to his passing. Other Democratic contenders include state lawmakers Stella Pekarsky and Irene Shin.
The Republican field also includes Lipsman and two challengers, Mike Van Meter and another unidentified candidate who ran against Connolly in 2024.
Looking Ahead
As the special election approaches, Lipsman’s commitment to her values and her unique background as a communism survivor is set to resonate with voters. With her experience and perspective, she aims to present a compelling alternative in the race for Virginia’s 11th Congressional District.
In this densely populated political landscape, Lipsman’s campaign promises to be more than just a response to the current state of affairs—it is a narrative rooted in the pursuit of freedom and opportunity, echoing the very principles that drew her family to America.
As Virginia gears up for the upcoming election, the spotlight remains on Lipsman and her fellow candidates, each vying for a chance to shape the future of the district and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about America’s values and direction.
