I am proud to endorse Jason Knapp for the United States House of Representatives in Virginia’s First Congressional District.

This endorsement was not an easy decision.  The Democratic primary includes seven candidates, each of whom has demonstrated a sincere commitment to public service and possesses the qualities to serve honorably in Congress.  I have great respect for each of them. Any one of these candidates could serve effectively as a Representative.

But elections ultimately require more than identifying qualified candidates.  They require selecting the candidate who can earn the confidence, the hearts, and the votes of the people of Virginia’s First Congressional District.  After careful consideration, I believe that candidate is Jason Knapp.

When I decided to run for Congress, I did so because I believed a lifetime of military and public service had prepared me to continue serving the people of Virginia.  Although I have concluded my campaign, my commitment to our Commonwealth and our country remains strong.  I believe it is important to unite behind the candidate best positioned to win this election and serve the First District with honor.

During more than two decades as an officer in the United States Air Force, I learned that leadership is measured by integrity, character, sound judgment, discipline, and the ability to accomplish the mission.  Success is never accidental.  It comes from preparation, strategic thinking, earning the trust of those you lead, and bringing people together around a common purpose.

A military officer’s career is defined by a series of increasingly complex assignments rather than a single role.  Throughout that career, officers are entrusted with leading military units, managing diverse missions, developing future leaders, and making critical decisions in environments where failure is not an option.  These experiences require adaptability, judgment under pressure, and the ability to inspire confidence while accomplishing the mission.

Through those responsibilities, I learned how to recognize effective leadership.  The most successful leaders are defined not only by intelligence and determination, but by integrity, humility, sound judgment, resilience, and the ability to unite people behind a shared purpose.  Those lessons have guided me throughout my years in public service, in the courtroom, and in election administration, and they continue to guide how I evaluate those seeking positions of public trust.

It is through that lens, shaped by a lifetime of leading organizations, developing leaders, and evaluating individuals entrusted with significant responsibility, that I believe Jason Knapp possesses the character, judgment, and leadership qualities necessary to serve with distinction in the United States House of Representatives.

Having recently campaigned throughout Virginia’s First Congressional District, I also understand what it takes to compete successfully here.  Winning this district requires more than strong credentials or well-crafted messages.  It requires a candidate who can connect with veterans, military families, working families, seniors, farmers, small business owners, and young people. It requires someone who listens, builds trust, and unites people across the district.

I believe Jason Knapp possesses those qualities.

I have been impressed by his integrity, humility, work ethic, and commitment to public service.  He understands that elected office is about serving people, not political parties, special interests, or personal ambition.  He has the determination and leadership needed to represent every community in Virginia’s First District.

Jason has the vision and discipline to build the coalition required to win this election, and the character to serve effectively once elected.  I am confident he will work to strengthen our economy, support our military and veterans, protect Social Security and Medicare, defend our constitutional freedoms, and improve the lives of the people he represents.

I do not offer endorsements lightly.  Based on a lifetime of leading organizations, developing leaders, and serving the public, I recognize the qualities required to earn trust and lead effectively.  My endorsement reflects my confidence that Jason Knapp is the candidate best prepared to unite Virginians, win this election, and serve the First District with honor and distinction.

I encourage all voters — Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike, who are looking for principled and effective leadership, to support Jason Knapp for the United States House of Representatives.

Jason Knapp has earned my confidence, my respect, and my wholehearted support.

-Lewis Littlepage

Former Candidate, Virginia First Congressional District