VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer announced he will run for the Republican nomination to represent District 22 in the Virginia Senate.
Dyer, a veteran of the United States Marines, served Virginia Beach for 14 years on city council before being elected mayor three times.
“Richmond is quick to impose mandates to local government and stick local taxpayers with the bill,” Dyer said. “We have to pay for their decisions without so much as a seat at the table. That culture of arrogance must end.”
A news release from Dyer's campaign says he is running to bring "a local voice to state government and bring more collaboration than confrontation."
Watch local coverage: Virginia Beach mayor outlines city's future at annual State of the City address
Currently represented by Democratic Sen. Aaron Rouse, District 22 includes Virginia Beach. Rouse shared this statement with News 3 in response to Dyer's announcement:
"I take great pride in representing my hometown of Virginia Beach and the people of Senate District 22. I was proud to lead the bipartisan effort to honor the will of Virginia Beach voters and update our city charter to reflect the 10-1 voting system they supported.
Whether it’s our residents or the dedicated city employees who keep Virginia Beach running, everyone deserves a voice, a meaningful seat at the table, and fair pay for an honest day’s work.
Public service means putting the people you represent first. That’s how I served on City Council, and it’s how I continue to serve in Richmond. I look forward to continuing that work in 2027."
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