In a year that has already seen a record number of candidates running in both local and general elections, committees are doing their part to ensure that they are on the ballot. On Saturday the Prince William County Democratic Women’s Caucus along with the Potomac District Democratic Committee hosted the Candidate’s Petition Parkway in Dumfries. Taking place in areas such as Manassas to Gainesville, the purpose of the event was to collect signatures for Virginia’s statewide candidates.

Registered voters were able to participate via drive through sign-ups in order to maintain proper social distancing, with volunteers wearing masks and providing sanitization. Depending on the district, people could sign up for their Democratic-based candidate. There were several volunteers on hand who spoke about the importance of being a part of the event, one of them being Delegate Michael Futrell.

“This is going to be the most people-centric campaign that Virginia has ever seen,” said Futrell, who was overseeing the table for Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax, who is running for Governor. “What [former President] Donald Trump has done, is that he has awakened the masses. I’m looking forward to seeing what we are going to accomplish.”

Elizabeth Cameron, another volunteer, emphasized the importance of voters being a part of the democratic process beyond going to the polls. “Voting isn’t enough,” said Cameron, “you should always get out and support a candidate who means a lot to you and your community.”

Katelyn Page, Chair of the PWC Democratic Women’s Caucus, spoke about the collaborative effort in organizing the event. “It’s about letting people know what’s going on and I could not have done this alone,” said Page, “and we have an incredible staff of support who helped put this all together.”

She also spoke to the importance of having so many women on the ballot as well. “It means so much to me to see so many awesome women as well out here, and we’ll continue to do this until it becomes the norm.”

In addition to the efforts of the committees and volunteers, several candidates also visited the event to show their support. One of them was gubernatorial candidate Jennifer Carroll Foy, who spoke about why it was imperative to people to come out. “Getting on the ballot is so important, we need to make sure we get the signatures to make that happen. We need people to know that the day to begin casting their ballots is April 24 and the last day is June 8. So we’re thankful for everyone who came out, and I’m excited to be here.”

Delegate Elizabeth Guzman, who is also running for Lt. Governor, talked about why she came out to support. “I think it’s important because it’s a testament that there is a lot of energy in Prince William, and I wanted to come out and meet with my supporters and with the volunteers. I’ve been there once so I think it means the world when you meet with them.”

Briana Sewell, who is running in the 51st House of Delegates race, was encouraged by the vast turnout on this day. “So to be out here on behalf of the 51st district and to see people coming out this early is encouraging,” said Sewell. “We’ve done a lot of work and we’re ready to continue this momentum as we usher in to towards November, we want to also hear the issues that matter most to the people in Prince William County.”

Councilwoman Selonia Miles of Dumfries was also pleased to see the diverse representation of the volunteers, candidates and supporters who came out to sign the petitions. “It’s amazing. I’ve been a member of the party for several years, and it’s wonderful to see that change that has happened in a relatively short amount of time. It’s amazing to see our elected officials who represent our community.”