Virginia Governor’s Cousin Launches Congressional Campaign in California
Jenny Ray Le Roux, a Republican and cousin of Virginia Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger, announced her candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in California’s 47th District. This district is currently represented by Dave Ming, a Democratic congressman seeking re-election.
The National Republican Congressional Committee has identified Orange County as a key target area as the party aims to defend its limited number of seats in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Le Roux is among four Republican candidates competing against Ming in the primary scheduled for June 2.
“I’m running because I love this district,” Le Roux shared. “I have a deep appreciation for California, yet I believe Dave Ming hasn’t energized this community effectively.”
Le Roux criticized Ming’s approach, noting that while he campaigned as a moderate, his actions in office suggest a more progressive agenda. “Many people here aren’t really into progressive politics; they just want basic services like functional schools and roads,” she pointed out.
She also drew parallels with her cousin, expressing concern over Spanberger’s perceived shift from moderate to progressive as well. “Abby is representing a moderate stance in Virginia, but I feel she’s governing differently—it might alienate some Democratic voters,” Le Roux argued.
Le Roux recounted her close relationship with Spanberger, reflecting on their shared upbringing, summer family gatherings, and their academic journey together at the University of Virginia. “We’ve both been shaped by a strong sense of community and patriotism,” she noted.
Her interest in politics intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic when she faced significant challenges with her farm and business. “I felt incredibly frustrated with the governor’s handling of school closures and other pressing issues in California,” she remarked, referring to Gavin Newsom.
Le Roux has previously run for governor, participating in the 2021 recall election and again in the 2022 primaries, where she finished fourth. She currently directs CAL DOGE, a project aimed at addressing governmental inefficiencies.
She attributes her desire to run for Congress to her experience with CAL DOGE, emphasizing the need for transparency in government spending. “I think technology can now help in revealing where the money is flowing,” she explained.
Le Roux identifies as a staunch conservative and fiscal hardliner, passionate about reversing the policies she believes have failed California. “I’m all for returning government responsibilities back to local control,” she added.
Despite their political differences, Le Roux expressed admiration for Spanberger. “I sincerely wish her the best and believe we should maintain open dialogue,” she stated. “However, we do have quite a few disagreements in our political views right now.” She described the current state of their family dynamic as “interesting.”
