Eugene Vindman, a former National Security Council official and the twin brother of Alexander Vindman, who testified against former President Donald Trump in his first impeachment trial, announced on Tuesday that he is running for Congress as a Democrat in Virginia’s 7th district.
“I am running for Congress because I believe in the promise of America and the American dream. I want to fight for the people of Virginia and the future of our country,” Eugene Vindman said in a video statement. “I am not a politician, I am a patriot. I have dedicated my life to serving this nation, and I will continue to do so in Congress.”
Eugene Vindman is a lawyer and a cybersecurity expert, who has worked on issues such as election security, cyber warfare, and Russian interference. He retired from the Army as a colonel earlier this year, after being reassigned by the Trump administration following his brother’s testimony. He said he was inspired by his brother’s courage and integrity to stand up for what is right.
“Alexander showed me that in times of crisis, every citizen has a duty to speak out. He also showed me that speaking truth to power comes at a cost. But we cannot let fear stop us from doing what is right,” he said.
Eugene Vindman is running for the seat currently held by Rep. Abigail Spanberger, who may run for governor next year. Spanberger, a former CIA officer, is one of the most vulnerable Democrats in the House, representing a district that Trump won by 6 points in 2016. She narrowly defeated Republican challenger Nick Freitas in 2020, by less than 2 points.
Eugene Vindman has been in touch with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and other potential candidates, and has hired a campaign manager and a pollster. He has also received the endorsement of his brother, who praised him as a proven leader.
“Eugene is a proven leader who has the courage and integrity to stand up for what is right. He has the experience and expertise to tackle the challenges we face in the 21st century,” Alexander Vindman said in a statement.
Eugene Vindman is expected to face a competitive primary and a tough general election, as Republicans are eyeing the district as a top pickup opportunity. He will have to overcome the attacks from the GOP, which has branded him and his brother as “deep state” operatives and “never-Trumpers”.
However, Eugene Vindman said he is confident that he can win over the voters with his message of service, security, and opportunity. He also said he is ready to take on the Republicans and their extremism and corruption.
“Eugene Vindman is a serious threat to the Republicans’ hopes of winning back the House. He has the potential to mobilize the diverse and growing electorate in this district, and to appeal to the moderate and independent voters who are fed up with the GOP’s extremism and corruption,” political analyst Larry Sabato said.
Relevant articles:
– Yevgeny Vindman considering a run for Congress in Virginia, Axios, 2023-10-04
– Eugene Vindman set to run for open House seat in Virginia, CNN, 2023-11-15
– Eugene Vindman is running for Congress, Yahoo News, 2023-11-15
– Eugene Vindman Announces Virginia Congressional Bid, MSN, 2023-11-15