As we approach Election Day in Richmond, we find ourselves not only voting for new leadership across the board but also nearing the end of our Richmond Elections Reader’s Poll, which has given the RVA Magazine community a platform to voice their opinions. We’ll be keeping the poll open until the day of the election to see how our results compare to the final vote. This year’s election is particularly significant, as we’ll be choosing a new mayor, school board members, and city council representatives who will help shape the future of our rapidly growing city.
Read our initial post on the Richmond Mayor’s Race HERE.
Also, we went to City Hall over the weekend and voted, you should too. Super easy. Early voting information in Richmond can be found HERE.
Now, let’s dive into how the candidates are doing according to our latest poll results as of 12PM October 26th, 2024. Also, you can still vote in our poll at the very end of this long, but hopefully informative, write up.
Mayoral Race in Richmond
In addition to city council elections, Richmond is also electing a new mayor, and the race is incredibly close. Here’s where the candidates stand based on our Reader’s Poll:
Andreas Addison (Age: 42)
Poll Standing: Leading with 34% of the vote. Addison, a current city council member, has built his campaign on economic development, public safety, and infrastructure improvements. He’s pushing for a Richmond that grows smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Read the full interview HERE.
Danny Avula (Age: 45)
Poll Standing: Right behind Addison with 33%. As Richmond’s former public health director, Avula is focusing on community health, equitable development, and safety. His experience during the pandemic gives him a unique edge in advocating for a healthier, more inclusive city. Read the full interview HERE.
Michelle Mosby (Age: 55)
Poll Standing: Holding steady at 12%, Mosby—a former city council president—is putting education reform and small business support front and center in her bid for the mayor’s office. Read the full interview HERE.
Harrison Roday (Age: 32)
Poll Standing: Also at 12%, Roday is a local entrepreneur focused on fiscal responsibility and job creation. He’s pushing for a Richmond that fosters business growth and financial stability. Read the full interview HERE
Maurice Neblett (Age: 34)
Poll Standing: Sitting at 6%, Neblett’s campaign zeroes in on racial justice, housing reform, and economic equity—issues that resonate with voters seeking broader social changes. Read the full interview HERE
Brandon J. Smith (Age: n/a)
Poll Standing: Polling at 2%, Smith’s platform highlights public safety reforms and transportation improvements. He’s pushing for better city services to ensure safety and mobility.
Bridgette Jones Whitaker (Age: n/a)
Poll Standing: Trailing at 1%, Whitaker is focused on affordable housing and strengthening public education, aiming to bring more support to underserved communities.
City Council Races in Richmond
Here’s a look at where the city council candidates stand according to our Reader’s Poll results:
First District (West End)
Major Areas: West End, including neighborhoods like the University of Richmond, Windsor Farms, and Tuckahoe. Key Landmarks: University of Richmond, Country Club of Virginia. General Boundaries: West of the downtown area, covering much of the westernmost part of the city.
Key Landmarks: University of Richmond, Country Club of Virginia.
Andrew “Gumby” Breton (Age: 42)
Key Focus: Safe streets, environmental preservation, public school resources.
Poll Standing: Currently leading with 51% of the vote.
Background: Andrew “Gumby” Breton is the current chair of the Richmond City Democratic Committee and serves on the Richmond Parent Teacher Association board. His platform emphasizes advocating for safe streets, environmental preservation, and strengthening resources for public schools. A graduate of the University of Virginia, Breton is also a member of the Mary Munford PTA board.
Paul Goldman (Age: 78)
Key Focus: Opposing casino and baseball stadium projects, preserving public resources.
Poll Standing: Holding 38% of the vote.
Background: Paul Goldman, a seasoned political analyst and lawyer, served as the chair of the Democratic Party of Virginia from 1990 to 1993. A prominent figure in Richmond politics, Goldman has been a vocal opponent of the proposed Richmond casino referendums and efforts to build the new Diamond baseball stadium. His extensive political experience includes working on campaigns for Robert F. Kennedy, Dan Walker, and former Governor L. Douglas Wilder. Known for his strong stances on local issues, Goldman continues to be a significant player in shaping Richmond’s political landscape.
Zac Walker (Age: 39)
Key Focus: Public education, pedestrian-friendly streets, sustainable city projects.
Poll Standing: Trailing with 11%.
Background: Zac Walker, a Virginia Commonwealth University graduate, has lived in Richmond for 15 years and is a parent of a Richmond Public Schools student. His platform prioritizes funding public education, creating pedestrian-friendly roads, and supporting projects that benefit the city. Currently working at Dominion Energy, Walker also served as the past president of the Monument Ave Park Civic Association.
Here’s the situation: Andrew “Gumby” Breton is leading with 51%. Why? Well, his focus on safe streets and improving public schools hits home with the families in the district’s neighborhoods—places like the University of Richmond area, where safety and education are paramount. His deep involvement with the PTA and environmental issues adds a layer of credibility that resonates with voters concerned about the future, sustainability, and the resources their kids rely on.
Now, Paul Goldman—he’s got 38%, and that’s no surprise given his long-established presence in Richmond politics. Goldman’s opposition to big projects like the casino and the baseball stadium speaks to a base that’s wary of overdevelopment. But his history with these old battles might just make him a bit less attractive to younger voters who are looking forward, not back. That said, our poll doesn’t cover a large percentage of likely older voters from the district, so this is not as clear cut as it might seem.
As for Zac Walker, trailing with 11%, his message isn’t all that different from Breton’s. But the problem? He’s not as well-known. Walker’s lower name recognition, coupled with a less prominent role in the community compared to Breton’s PTA and Democratic Committee leadership, leaves him struggling to gain traction. It’s a case of solid ideas, but not enough visibility.
Second District (Museum District / Scott’s Addition)
Major Areas: Museum District, Scott’s Addition, parts of the Fan District.
Key Landmarks: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Science Museum of Virginia, Arthur Ashe Boulevard.
Katherine Jordan (Age: 50)
Key Focus: Green infrastructure, school funding, safe roads.
Poll Standing: Running unopposed with 100% of the vote.
Background: Katherine Jordan has represented Richmond’s 2nd District since 2020. She sits on key committees, including organizational development, finance and economic development, land use, housing and transportation, and governmental operations. Jordan has led numerous green initiatives and has been a strong advocate for school funding. Notably, she is the only council member who consistently opposed the casino referendums. Running unopposed for a second four-year term, her platform continues to focus on green infrastructure, school funding, and safer roads.
Third District (Northside)
Major Areas: Bellevue, Ginter Park, Laburnum Park.
Key Landmarks: Bryan Park, John Marshall High School.
Kenya Gibson (Age: 50)
Key Focus: Affordable housing, union jobs, transparency in government.
Poll Standing: Leading with 44% of the vote.
Background: Kenya Gibson currently represents the 3rd District on the Richmond School Board, first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2020. Earlier this year, she announced her candidacy for city council. Her platform centers on accessible and affordable housing, securing good union jobs, improving public services, and promoting transparent government. With six years of experience on the school board, Gibson has also served as a PTA vice-president and is a parent of two children attending Richmond Public Schools.
Maria Carra Rose (Age: 42)
Key Focus: School funding, safe streets, responsive city government.
Poll Standing: Close second with 40%.
Background: Maria Carra Rose is a member of the Richmond City Democratic Committee, a community activist, and a parent of a Richmond Public Schools student. Active in numerous civic organizations, she brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked in human resources and as a general contractor. Her platform emphasizes adequately funding public schools, creating safe and walkable streets, and making city government more accessible and responsive. A longtime organizer, Rose is also an HR consultant and a member of the Battery Park Civic Association.
Ann-Frances Lambert (Age: 47)
Key Focus: Community development, transportation, housing.
Poll Standing: Currently holding 17%.
Background: Ann-Frances Lambert, the incumbent, was elected to Richmond City Council in 2020 and currently serves as the council’s vice president. She sits on several key committees, including governmental operations, land use, housing and transportation, and organizational development. A Ginter Park native, Lambert is the daughter of the late Benny Lambert, a former Virginia delegate who championed racial justice. With experience at the local, state, and federal levels of government, Lambert ran for the 79th District Virginia House of Delegates seat in 2023 but was unsuccessful in the primary.
Let’s take a closer look at this one: Kenya Gibson is out in front with 44%, but not by much—Maria Carra Rose is right on her heels at 40%. What’s driving Gibson’s lead? Her experience on the school board, for one, and her focus on affordable housing and union jobs—issues that speak directly to voters worried about economic inequality and the city’s housing crisis. She’s appealing to those who feel the squeeze from Richmond’s rapid development.
But don’t count Rose out. She’s making waves with a platform focused on school funding and a more responsive local government. For voters who are looking for immediate action on governance and education, Rose is hitting the right notes. It’s why this race is tight.
Now, Ann-Frances Lambert—she’s trailing with just 17%. Why? It could be fallout from her recent run for state delegate, a race she didn’t win. There’s also the perception that she’s not as laser-focused on local issues as her opponents. Voters, especially in this district, want someone locked in on the neighborhood-level concerns, and Lambert may not be delivering what they’re looking for.
Fourth District (Southwest / Stratford Hills)
Major Areas: Stratford Hills, Huguenot, Willow Oaks.
Key Landmarks: Pony Pasture on the James River, Forest Hill Park.
Sarah Abubaker (Age: 38)
Key Focus: Schools, affordable housing, property tax reform, environmental protection.
Poll Standing: Running unopposed with 100% of the vote.
Background: Sarah Abubaker is the director of strategic communications at Collegiate School and actively volunteers with organizations such as the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance and The Well Collective. Her extensive community involvement includes serving as president of the Westover Hills Neighborhood Association and working with the Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center and Art 180. Running unopposed to fill the seat vacated by Kristen Nye, Abubaker’s platform focuses on improving schools, affordable housing, property tax reform, and environmental protection.
Fifth District (Fan / Oregon Hill / Randolph)
Major Areas: Fan District, Oregon Hill, Randolph, Carver, parts of Carytown.
Key Landmarks: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Hollywood Cemetery.
Stephanie Lynch (Age: 37)
Key Focus: Schools, affordable housing, public safety.
Poll Standing: Unopposed with 100% support.
Background: Stephanie Lynch, the incumbent council member for the 5th District, assumed office in 2019 and was officially elected in 2020. She serves on several committees, including organizational development, education and human services, public safety, and governmental operations. A social worker in Richmond, Lynch is running unopposed with a platform focused on improving schools, expanding affordable housing, reimagining public safety, and reducing gun violence.
Sixth District (Downtown / Jackson Ward / Manchester)
Major Areas: Downtown Richmond, Jackson Ward, Manchester, Monroe Ward.
Key Landmarks: Richmond Coliseum, Virginia State Capitol, Richmond Convention Center.
Tavares Floyd (Age: 33)
Key Focus: Decreasing gun violence, economic development, poverty reduction.
Poll Standing: N/A
Background: Tavares Floyd’s platform focuses on advocating for all neighborhoods in his district, reducing gun violence, strengthening the city’s economy, and addressing poverty.
However, it is important to note that Floyd is currently facing scrutiny due to multiple accusations, including being related to George Floyd at all, which have raised concerns within the community. You can read a small portion of that HERE and HERE.
Willie Hilliard Jr. (Age: 60)
Key Focus: Affordable housing, equitable transportation, food access.
Poll Standing: N/A
Background: Willie Hilliard, a barber and community organizer, has been actively involved in addressing food scarcity through his work with the North Side Food Access Coalition. In 2020, he ran unsuccessfully for the 3rd District Richmond City Council seat. Hilliard’s platform focuses on increasing affordable housing, promoting equitable transportation, ensuring food access for all residents, and funding public education. He is also the president of the Brookland Park Area Association and continues to advocate for community-driven solutions on the North Side.
In addition we received the following documents from the Wilie Hilliard Jr. Campaign over the weekend:
Willie Hilliard has asked Richmond and Virginia election authorities to investigate multiple violations by Floyd’s campaign. You can read the official document HERE.
In addition, Hilliard filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with Richmond City Council to obtain records related to Floyd’s hiring and employment under Councilwoman Ellen Robertson. The FOIA request seeks to uncover whether Floyd used his position within city government for personal financial gain and whether city officials were aware of any unethical behavior. You can read the official document HERE.
Ellen Robertson (Age: 73)
Key Focus: Affordable housing, protecting historically Black communities, fighting gentrification.
Poll Standing: N/A
Background: Ellen Robertson, the incumbent, has served on Richmond City Council since 2003, holding the position for 21 years and winning five reelections. She sits on key committees, including organizational development, education and human services, finance and economic development, and land use, housing and transportation. A licensed practical nurse with a degree in Urban Planning from VCU, Robertson has led numerous initiatives to expand affordable housing and combat gentrification in historically Black communities. Her tenure makes her the longest-serving council member in the modern City Council structure.
We are taking this poll question down. Here’s why: Tavares Floyd is currently leading in our poll. However, it’s important to clarify that our poll is lacking extensive safeguards against potential manipulation. Given the ongoing allegations surrounding Floyd, the poll results may not accurately reflect the actual dynamics of this race. Consequently, we’ve decided to invalidate these results for this particular race.
Seventh District (Church Hill / East End)
Major Areas: Church Hill, Chimborazo, Fulton Hill, Oakwood.
Key Landmarks: Chimborazo Park, St. John’s Church.
Eric Sundberg (Age: 29)
Key Focus: Housing for all, reparations, reducing evictions.
Poll Standing: Leading with 55% support.
Background: Eric Sundberg is the youngest candidate running in the upcoming election, with a background in labor reform and community advocacy. He previously served as the chair of the Richmond Democratic Socialists of America. Sundberg’s platform focuses on creating housing for all, paying reparations to exploited and displaced neighborhoods, reducing evictions, ending slumlord practices, and ensuring adequate food access. From 2019 to 2021, he was the chief of staff for Delegate Joshua Cole, and he is currently working as a graphic designer.
Cynthia Newbille (Age: 72)
Key Focus: Historic preservation, affordable housing, public policy.
Poll Standing: Holding 45%.
Background: Cynthia Newbille, the incumbent, has served on Richmond City Council since being elected in 2009, holding her position for 14 consecutive years. She sits on the organizational development, education and human services, and finance and economic development committees. Throughout her tenure, Newbille has led significant historic preservation efforts, including initiatives for the National Slavery Museum. She holds a Ph.D. in public policy and administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and grew up in the district, having previously worked for Richmond Public Schools.
Here’s what we’re looking at: Eric Sundberg is out front with 55%, and that’s telling us something. This district is shifting, and fast. The growing interest in progressive reforms—things like housing rights and reparations—is gaining traction, especially in historically Black neighborhoods. Sundberg’s platform speaks directly to that shift.
Meanwhile, Cynthia Newbille—a long-time incumbent with a strong record on historic preservation and affordable housing—might be feeling the heat. As the district changes, she’s struggling to keep her base intact in the face of younger, more progressive voters who are pushing for something new. It’s a classic case of old guard versus new wave.
Eighth District (Southside / Broad Rock)
Major Areas: Broad Rock, Southwood, Walmsley.
Key Landmarks: Southside Plaza, Swansboro Elementary School.
Frank Henry Wilson Jr. (Age: 65)
Key Focus: Public facilities, fiscal accountability, district improvements.
Poll Standing: Leading with 53% support.
Background: Frank Henry Wilson Jr. serves as a judicial officer with the Supreme Court of Virginia, bringing over 30 years of management experience in insurance and financial services to his campaign. His platform is focused on enhancing public facilities, ensuring fiscal accountability, and driving overall improvements in the district’s infrastructure. Before his judicial role, Wilson had a long career in the insurance industry, and earlier in his life, he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers for a brief stint in professional sports. He holds a master’s degree from Liberty University.
Reva Trammell (Age: 70)
Key Focus: Public safety, police funding, employee bargaining rights.
Poll Standing: Close behind with 47%.
Background: Reva Trammell, the incumbent, has served on Richmond City Council for 17 years, first elected in 2007 after a previous four-year stint beginning in 1998. She sits on the organizational development and public safety committees, where she has been a strong advocate for the Richmond Police Department and played a key role in spearheading collective bargaining for city employees. Trammell is also the president and CEO of RMT LLC, and she is currently the second longest-serving city councilor.
Here’s the situation: Frank Henry Wilson Jr. is leading with 53%, and it’s clear why. His focus on district improvements and fiscal accountability is hitting the mark with voters who are prioritizing economic stability and practical, on-the-ground infrastructure changes.
Meanwhile, Reva Trammell, a long-standing incumbent, is close behind at 47%, but she’s facing a tough race. Her emphasis on public safety and police funding may not be enough to hold off Wilson. The district’s priorities are shifting, with more voters now looking for broader community development rather than just law enforcement-focused policies. This race is tighter than it looks, and Trammell’s longevity might not be enough to carry her through this time.
Ninth District (Southside / South Richmond)
Major Areas: Belt Boulevard, South Richmond, parts of the Forest Hill area.
Key Landmarks: Oak Grove, Bellemeade, Broad Rock Park.
Stephanie Starling (Age: 53)
Key Focus: Infrastructure improvements, community outreach, school reform.
Poll Standing: Leading with 57% of the vote
Background: Stephanie Starling, a lifelong Richmond resident and consultant with Verizon, is also a member of the Richmond City Democratic Committee. After Del. Michael Jones resigned from the council to serve in the Virginia General Assembly, Starling was one of three candidates who applied to fill the vacancy but was not selected. Now, she is running again through a popular vote. Her platform focuses on improving infrastructure, increasing access to services for vulnerable populations, expanding community outreach, and improving schools. An Army veteran, Starling continues her community organizing efforts and remains active in local politics.
Nicole Jones (Age: 51)
Key Focus: Education funding, economic development, clean neighborhoods.
Poll Standing: Following with 43%
Background: Nicole Jones recently joined Richmond City Council after being appointed to fill the seat vacated by now-Delegate Michael Jones. Previously, she served as the 9th District School Board representative, a position she was elected to in 2020. With a background in business development and management, Jones is currently the deputy director at Art 180. Her platform focuses on funding public education, promoting economic development, and ensuring safe, clean neighborhoods. She brings her experience from the school board and her work in the community to her new role on the council.
Let’s break this one down: Stephanie Starling is leading the pack with 57%, and it’s not hard to see why. Her strong community ties, coupled with a focus on infrastructure improvements and practical outreach, are resonating with voters who want solutions that work—real, on-the-ground changes that they can see and feel in their daily lives.
Nicole Jones, at 43%, is no stranger to public service, having had a stint on the City Council and the School Board. But her time in office hasn’t yet cemented her position in the district. Starling’s focus on infrastructure and accessible services gives her the clear edge, while Jones’s emphasis on education and community-driven policies still holds appeal for a significant slice of the electorate. But right now, Starling’s message is the one carrying the day, at least with our readers.
Let’s look at the big picture:
- Incumbency Advantage: Candidates like Katherine Jordan and Stephanie Lynch, who are either running unopposed or holding significant leads, demonstrate clear voter satisfaction. They offer a sense of stability that their districts appreciate, which translates into strong electoral positions.
- Progressive Movements: Then you have candidates like Eric Sundberg and Tavares Floyd, riding the wave of progressive platforms in districts where younger, more activist voters are making their voices heard. These candidates are tapping into the desire for change, pushing issues like housing reform, social justice, and economic equity.
- Voter Fatigue: On the flip side, long-serving incumbents like Ellen Robertson and Reva Trammell are facing stiffer challenges. After years in office, there’s a growing appetite for new leadership, even in districts that have historically stuck with the same faces.
- Issue Alignment: Across the board, it’s clear—candidates who focus on schools, housing, and infrastructure are performing better. These are the issues that Richmond voters are prioritizing in this election cycle, and candidates who address them head-on are gaining traction.
Top Concerns of Richmond Residents
In addition to voting for leadership, Richmond residents also shared their concerns about key issues in the city. The responses from our poll reflect where the community feels progress has been made—and where more work is needed. Here’s what our readers had to say about the most pressing issues:
Affordable Housing
It’s clear that affordable housing remains a significant concern for Richmonders, with the majority believing that the city could do more or is doing a poor job.
- The city is doing a great job: 1%
- The city could do more: 41%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 52%
- This is not an issue for me: 3%
- No opinion: 2%
Cultural Preservation
Cultural preservation is seen as another area where the city could improve, with over half of respondents feeling more needs to be done.
- The city is doing a great job: 13%
- The city could do more: 57%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 19%
- This is not an issue for me: 6%
- No opinion: 6%
Economic Development
While some respondents see the city making strides in economic development, the majority believe there’s still room for improvement.
- The city is doing a great job: 10%
- The city could do more: 51%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 28%
- This is not an issue for me: 5%
- No opinion: 5%
Education
Education is another key issue for Richmonders, with over half of respondents dissatisfied with the city’s efforts to support and improve public schools.
- The city is doing a great job: 1%
- The city could do more: 36%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 54%
- This is not an issue for me: 4%
- No opinion: 3%
Environmental Sustainability
Environmental sustainability also ranks high on the list of concerns, with many feeling that while efforts are being made, much more could be done.
- The city is doing a great job: 11%
- The city could do more: 57%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 23%
- This is not an issue for me: 4%
- No opinion: 5%
Healthcare Access
Access to healthcare is another area where residents believe the city could improve, with over half of respondents calling for more to be done.
- The city is doing a great job: 4%
- The city could do more: 55%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 23%
- This is not an issue for me: 7%
- No opinion: 11%
Homelessness and Poverty
Homelessness and poverty are seen as critical issues, with a majority stating that the city is doing a terrible job in addressing them.
- The city is doing a great job: 1%
- The city could do more: 37%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 55%
- This is not an issue for me: 2%
- No opinion: 4%
Job Opportunities
Job opportunities are another area where more than half of respondents believe the city could do better, particularly as Richmond continues to grow.
- The city is doing a great job: 11%
- The city could do more: 52%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 22%
- This is not an issue for me: 3%
- No opinion: 13%
Opioid Epidemic
While the opioid epidemic is not a top issue for all Richmonders, those who are concerned feel more could be done to address it.
- The city is doing a great job: 4%
- The city could do more: 44%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 19%
- This is not an issue for me: 7%
- No opinion: 24%
Small Business Support
Small business support is another area where residents believe the city could offer more help, especially in light of the economic challenges faced by local entrepreneurs.
- The city is doing a great job: 7%
- The city could do more: 38%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 35%
- This is not an issue for me: 7%
- No opinion: 12%
Racial and Social Equity
Concerns about racial and social equity remain prevalent, with over half of respondents indicating the city has more work to do in this area.
- The city is doing a great job: 9%
- The city could do more: 53%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 24%
- This is not an issue for me: 7%
- No opinion: 6%
Transportation and Traffic
Transportation and traffic are hot topics for Richmonders, with a majority calling for improvements in this area.
- The city is doing a great job: 13%
- The city could do more: 52%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 29%
- This is not an issue for me: 3%
- No opinion: 2%
Public Safety and Crime
Public safety is a key concern, with many residents expressing dissatisfaction with the current efforts to address crime in the city.
- The city is doing a great job: 8%
- The city could do more: 61%
- The city is doing a terrible job: 24%
- This is not an issue for me: 3%
- No opinion: 4%
Richmonders’ Sense of Safety
While most Richmonders generally feel safe, there remains a notable percentage who do not, reflecting ongoing concerns about public safety.
- Yes, I feel safe: 34%
- Most of the time, I feel safe: 58%
- No, I don’t feel safe: 6%
- No opinion: 2%
Trust in the Richmond City Police
Trust in the Richmond City Police appears divided, with a significant portion of respondents expressing distrust in law enforcement.
- Yes, I trust the police: 16%
- Most of the time, I trust the police: 34%
- No, I don’t trust the police: 43%
- No opinion: 7%
LGBTQIA+ Safety and Inclusion
While a small percentage of the LGBTQIA+ community reports feeling unsafe, the majority did not provide an opinion, indicating more work may be needed to address this demographic’s concerns.
- Yes, I feel safe and welcome: 13%
- Most of the time, I feel safe and welcome: 17%
- No, I don’t feel safe and welcome: 2%
- No opinion: 65%
In addition to electing new city leadership, Richmond residents have shared their thoughts on some critical issues facing the city. From public arts funding to the legalization of marijuana, and the most pressing concerns for the community, here’s where RVA Magazine readers stand:
Should there be a Richmond public arts fund?
Support for a public arts fund is overwhelmingly strong, with nearly three-quarters of respondents in favor of the initiative. This reflects the community’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting the arts in Richmond.
- Yes: 72%
- No: 10%
- I have no opinion: 17%
- Other: 1%
Should recreational marijuana be fully legalized and sold in the city?
Similarly, 72% of respondents support the full legalization and sale of recreational marijuana in Richmond, signaling strong backing for cannabis reform in the city.
- Yes: 72%
- No: 11%
- I have no opinion: 14%
- Other: 2%
Which of these issues are you most concerned about?
Affordable housing emerges as the top concern, with 36% of respondents identifying it as the most pressing issue. Education and economic development follow, while smaller percentages are concerned with homelessness, transportation, and public safety.
- Affordable Housing: 36%
- Cultural Preservation: 2%
- Economic Development: 8%
- Education: 15%
- Environmental Sustainability: 6%
- Healthcare Access: 2%
- Homelessness and Poverty: 7%
- Job Opportunities: 2%
- Opioid Epidemic: 0%
- Small Business Support: 4%
- Racial and Social Equity: 3%
- Transportation and Traffic: 6%
- Public Safety and Crime: 6%
- Other: 3%
If you had to pick a second issue that concerns you, which one would it be?
When asked to pick a second issue of concern, affordable housing still tops the list, but education, economic development, and transportation also rank high. These responses highlight the diverse priorities of Richmond residents as the city continues to grow and evolve.
- Affordable Housing: 19%
- Cultural Preservation: 1%
- Economic Development: 12%
- Education: 16%
- Environmental Sustainability: 9%
- Healthcare Access: 2%
- Homelessness and Poverty: 10%
- Job Opportunities: 2%
- Opioid Epidemic: 1%
- Small Business Support: 5%
- Racial and Social Equity: 6%
- Transportation and Traffic: 11%
- Public Safety and Crime: 5%
- Other: 1%
Understanding Our Poll Results
While our Reader’s Poll offers valuable insight into the preferences of RVA Magazine‘s audience, it’s important to acknowledge that the results are influenced by our readership and the demographics of the 575 respondents who have participated so far. The majority of respondents, 56%, are between the ages of 26 and 45, which does not fully represent the broader Richmond population.
In addition, a significant portion of responses come from the 23220 (19%), 23222 (12%), 23223 (11%), and 23225 (12%) ZIP codes, areas primarily in and around downtown Richmond.
Our poll reflects the views of a particular segment of Richmond’s population and should be considered just one piece of the puzzle. We encourage all residents to stay informed and ensure their voices are heard on Election Day.
Also, You can still vote in the reader’s poll below. Thankyou to everyone who already has.
