Campbell, Runion win delegate seats while the state goes blue

Not here.

The Democrats fielded Staunton's Jennifer Kitchen against Republican incumbent Chris Runion in an attempt to unseat the Republicans, but the small business owner from Rockingham County rode to a comfortable victory. 

Republicans held serve in the 24th House District as well, even as the state turned blue in the House of Delegates and the Senate.

Ronnie Campbell beat Christian Worth with nearly 66% of the vote in the 24th District.

Runion received over 58% of the vote in his race against Kitchen, whom he praised for running a fair race.

"I'm feeling honored and humble. I'm truly appreciative," Runion told The News Leader. "I want to thank my opponent because we ran an issues-based campaign ... I do truly appreciate how professional and issues-focused the election was."     

"My obligation as an elected official is to be engaged. You can't just do this, and then run to Richmond."

He also thanked his wife, saying they've always been a team, and that she offers a "grounded perspective" that he appreciates.

Runion has served as vice chair of the Rockingham Republican Committee, president of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce and has sat on the Rockingham Planning Commission, according to his website. 

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