DeBellis steps aside, endorses Richardson as Democratic challenger in House District 100 race

With the candidate filing deadline set to close Saturday, May 24 at 5 p.m., Liz Richardson is poised to become the Democratic nominee for the 100th House of Delegates District following the withdrawal of her only challenger, Rocco DeBellis of Cape Charles.

DeBellis announced his decision to step aside and endorse Richardson in a video posted to Facebook, calling her “definitely the better candidate to run for this house seat.” He added, “I am going to take a step back, thank anybody that supported me, and I am going to ask that you support her because I am supporting her.”

DeBellis announced his intention to run earlier this month, telling Virginia Mercury earlier this month that he entered to ensure the seat did not go uncontested. “This guy has to have at least somebody playing a little defense against him. If nobody else is going to step up and do it, I will gladly,” he said at the time.

Richardson filed shortly after DeBellis and has since gained his support following several meetings. In response to his endorsement, Richardson said, “I’m incredibly grateful for Rocco’s support and excited to see what we can accomplish together as a unified community.”

A Northampton native, Richardson most recently led a farmer advocacy program, assisting producers in financial distress nationwide. Her work included helping farmers in North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene. She was laid off earlier this year due to federal funding cuts that affected USDA programs, which coincided with the 100th District’s candidate search process.

“I look forward to bringing my family’s salt-of-the-earth perspective into the political arena,” Richardson said, noting her campaign is rooted in a legacy of public service.

If no additional candidates file by Saturday’s deadline, Richardson will become the presumptive nominee. Her candidacy will be certified by the Virginia Board of Elections following submission of the required party certification documentation.