Marketplace All-in-One How rising energy costs factored into Virginia's elections
Nov 7, 2025
Patrick Larsen, a political reporter for VPM News, dives into the significant influence of rising energy costs on recent Virginia elections. He details how affordability became a central campaign issue, affecting voter decisions regarding housing and healthcare. Larsen also unpacks the state's unique energy landscape, emphasizing the impact of massive data centers on electricity demands. He compares candidates' differing energy policies, highlighting how Democrats framed their campaign around soaring energy prices.
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Local Hot Toddy And Richmond Tip
- Patrick Larsen drank a hot toddy made with local Belle Isle Distillery honey habanero moonshine.
- He also recommended Cuba Cuba, a Richmond Cuban restaurant.
Democrats Overperformed In Virginia
- Democrats won all statewide races and expanded their House majority in Virginia this election cycle.
- Election results notably outperformed many polls and energized the Democratic base.
Affordability Drove Voter Decisions
- Affordability, especially housing, healthcare and energy, dominated voter concerns in Virginia.
- Democrats framed messaging on affordability to capitalize on economic uncertainty tied to federal workforce cuts.