James Lewis, a longtime democratic staffer on Capitol Hill, has joined the race for the Alexandria City Council.
The 33-year-old democrat has lived in Alexandria for more than a decade and is the vice chair of the city’s Traffic and Parking Board. He filed his statement of organization on Thursday, according to the city’s registrar of voters. He will also soon launch a campaign website, he said.
“I think we can find ways to be a green city to get to zero carbon emissions, to restore our waterways,” Lewis told ALXnow. “We can do the right things in a way that engages everyone, and I’m a collaborative team leader.”
He joins a number of new candidates running for open council seats seeking the democratic nomination in the primary on June 8. There are now only three sitting City Councilors seeking reelection — John Taylor Chapman, Amy Jackson and Canek Aguirre.
Lewis, the former president of the Virginia Young Democrats from 2017 to 2018, got a degree in biology from the College of William & Mary, and received a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College. He got a new job this year heading up government affairs for the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists in Old Town. Before that he spent more than six years working for members of Congress, as communications director for Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA).
Lewis, who opposed the Seminary Road diet, says that there is a disconnect between city staff and residents concerning big projects, and that residents need more say on development projects in the city.
“The way that the city does business, or at least is perceived to do business bothers a lot of people,” he said. “We need to be consulting every one of the stakeholders, and right now, I feel that in a lot of ways the average person who lives in the city doesn’t feel that’s happening.”
Lewis lives in the West End with his fiancé, Trevor Riley.
“It’s a brave new world,” Lewis said. “I’m excited to be here.”
Courtesy photo
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Monarch Montessori School located in the heart of Del Ray is enrolling children 6 weeks to 6 years of age for our half day and full day program.
Our hours of operation are 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday-Friday. Monarch Montessori School is open year round, with intermittent breaks.
Children engage in self-directed, self-initiated activities under the guidance of a trained Montessori teacher. Classroom sizes range from 8-12 students. Our robust curriculum includes botany, sensorial activities, the social graces, culture, math, science, practical life, geography, music appreciation and language arts.
You’ll get half off of the registration fee when you register and begin care with us before April 30, 2023.

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Del Ray Dog Fest & Yappy Hour
The 1st Annual Del Ray Dog Fest is a fun outdoor event that will include dog-centered activities, dog menu items, live music, vendors and food on Sunday, April 2 from 11am- 3pm at the George Washington Middle School parking lot.