GOP Rep. Jen Kiggans bemoans Capitol Hill’s partisan divide.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia — Freshman Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) brings a different perspective to the U.S. House of Representatives after spending time in the Virginia state Senate. In Richmond, bipartisanship was the norm, and there was no time to waste. But in D.C., Kiggans is facing a much more partisan and dramatic environment.
During an interview with the Washington Examiner, Kiggans expressed her belief that government would be better if people simply listened to one another. In the Virginia Senate, debates were held in the chamber, and members took the time to learn from each other’s perspectives. However, in D.C., listening is scarce, and the loudest voices tend to dominate the conversation.
Kiggans, a retired Navy helicopter pilot and nurse practitioner, emphasized the need for more common sense and less drama in Congress. She shared an anecdote about a conversation she had with a Democratic colleague in committee, only to witness that same colleague bashing Republicans on the House floor. Kiggans believes that the focus should be on what is best for the country, rather than seeking attention or making headlines.
A Battle for Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District
Kiggans represents Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, which is considered to ”lean Republican.” The district prioritizes policy and issues over partisanship. Kiggans highlighted the district’s concerns for a strong military, fiscal conservatism, and environmental issues due to its coastal location.
However, Kiggans is not without her critics. Democratic Party strategists view her as a top target for the 2024 election. They accuse her of enabling an extreme, partisan agenda and failing to deliver for Virginians. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has already invested in the race, launching a billboard campaign questioning Kiggans’ stance on defunding the DOJ and FBI.
Despite the challenges, Kiggans enjoys political support in her district. Nanette Miller, a Republican and Navy veteran, appreciates Kiggans’ focus on veteran services and the military. Miller believes that Kiggans is thoughtful and even-keeled, prioritizing the needs of the district over partisan talking points.
As Kiggans heads into her first reelection bid, she remains aware of the political volatility of her district. While Republicans have held control for the majority of the past 24 years, there have been defeats and scandals that serve as cautionary tales. Kiggans aims to continue representing her district with integrity and dedication.
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