This legislation is a tribute to a giant of public service, a man whose legacy is written across Northern Virginia and across this institution. Gerry Connolly believed deeply in public service. He believed in this institution, in the work of representative democracy, and in the responsibility that comes with the oath of office. He knew that democracy doesn't sustain itself. It takes people willing to do the hard, unglamorous work of governing, legislating, organizing, compromising, and showing up for the communities they serve.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+34Stable$1.6M raised
James Walkinshaw
Representative · Virginia · Democrat
James Walkinshaw
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Mr. Chair, I rise today in support of Amendment No. 309 to the FY2027 National Defense Authorization Act. My amendment would establish a pilot program to enable the Department of Defense (DoD) to more efficiently deploy modern cybersecurity solutions by accelerating the security verification of solutions that have already received FedRAMP High certification. FedRAMP is a standardized approach to certifying and assessing the security of cloud computing technologies used across federal agencies, and a FedRAMP High certification is the strictest cloud security authorization level within FedRAMP.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8897, the Improving Travel for American Families Act. Every day, thousands of families across our Nation take to the skies, many of them with small children who are not always the easiest of travel companions. I can attest to that. Any parent knows that long lines at checkpoints can make a long day of travel even worse for a kid. That is why since last year, the TSA has started pilot programs at select airports with special lines reserved for families which help decrease wait times while keeping screening efficient for other travelers, as well. H.R.
Biography
James Walkinshaw is the Democratic representative for Virginia’s 11th congressional district, elected in a September 2025 special election and now serving his first term in the U.S. House. He previously spent a decade as chief of staff to former VA-11 congressman Gerry Connolly and then served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for the Braddock District from 2020 until resigning in 2025 to run for Congress. Walkinshaw secured the Democratic nomination with Connolly’s backing after the incumbent announced his retirement and later died, then defeated Republican Stewart Whitson to take the seat.
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2025–PresentRepresented Virginia's 11th congressional district for 1 term.
Member, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors (Braddock District)
2020–2025Elected in 2019 to represent the Braddock District on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and re-elected in 2023, serving until his resignation in 2025.
Campaign Manager, Gerry Connolly for Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman
2007Managed Connolly’s 2007 campaign for Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in Northern Virginia.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Homeland Security
- House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
Rep. James Walkinshaw FAQ
Reach Virginia Lawmakers
Launch an AI-powered advocacy campaign that delivers personalized letters to Representative Walkinshaw and Virginia's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.
Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.
Start a Campaign