On June 6, candidates vying for Virginia’s 7th Congressional District seat gathered to discuss small business issues at a forum hosted by the Virginia Minority Chambers. Andrea Bailey, Margaret Franklin, Elizabeth Guzman, Briana Sewell, and Eugene Vindman presented their platforms and answered questions from chamber representatives.
Key Topics and Candidate Positions
The forum focused on small businesses in the 7th District and across Virginia, reflecting the Virginia Minority Chambers’ focus on minority and small business concerns. Each candidate had eight minutes for a speech followed by a five-minute Q&A session moderated by Neil McKinnon, Board Director of the Virginia Minority Chambers.
Job Creation and Artificial Intelligence
Candidates were asked about their strategies for creating vocational jobs and managing the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce. They all emphasized the importance of regulating AI without stifling innovation.
Briana Sewell stressed the need to balance innovation with workforce inclusion to meet future demands.
Eugene Vindman underscored the importance of leaders understanding and adapting to emerging technologies. He highlighted vocational and technical education, noting that some trade jobs will remain unaffected by AI.
Elizabeth Guzman advocated for increased investment in vocational and technical education and support for workers with non-degree credentials.
Margaret Franklin discussed the evolving workforce post-COVID-19 and the need for businesses to adapt. She emphasized ensuring minority-owned businesses are not left behind in the AI and digital revolution.
Andrea Bailey proposed tax incentives for local programs to create jobs and suggested that local colleges develop programs to train students in managing new technologies.
Access to Capital for Small Businesses
The candidates also discussed how they would ensure access to capital for minority businesses in the 7th District.
Margaret Franklin called for strengthening the Small Business Administration (SBA) and incentivizing banks to provide microloans to small businesses.
Briana Sewell echoed the need to make the SBA more accessible to help small businesses grow.
Elizabeth Guzman pointed out that microloans, typically up to $13,000, are insufficient and advocated for diversifying credit options.
Andrea Bailey supported establishing partnerships between banks and small businesses and ensuring these partnerships include training and sustainability support.
Eugene Vindman described the issue as structural, noting that large financial institutions favor similar entities over small businesses. He emphasized creating pathways for small businesses to access resources.
Campaign Context
The 7th Congressional District seat opened up after current representative Abigail Spanberger announced her gubernatorial run in 2025. With the primaries approaching on June 18, the race is competitive for both parties.
Eugene Vindman has emerged as a frontrunner in fundraising, having raised approximately $5 million, despite his opponents having stronger local ties. The district is seen as a potential opportunity for a Republican pickup.
In summary, the candidates focused on key issues affecting small businesses, including job creation, the impact of AI, and access to capital, each proposing solutions to support and grow Virginia’s small business community.