Ward Campaign Kicks Off at Union Hall, Flanked by Fire Fighters on Both Sides of the County Line

The room was packed. The energy was electric. And the message was clear: Dave Ward's campaign for State Senate District 24 is officially underway.

On May 5th, Dave Ward officially launched his campaign for Virginia State Senate District 24 surrounded by the people who matter most — neighbors, community members, and the men and women who put their lives on the line every single day to protect this region. The kickoff event, held at Union Hall, drew a standing-room crowd of supporters ready to get to work.

The night carried special significance with the presence of both IAFF Local 2424 out of York County and IAFF Local 2020 representing Williamsburg City fire fighters. Members from both locals showed up in force — not just as endorsers, but as believers. These are professionals who know this community's needs better than anyone, and they came to make it known that Dave Ward is their candidate.

"When fire fighters from both sides of the county line show up together for one candidate, that tells you something," Ward told the crowd. "These men and women don't just protect our homes — they are our neighbors. Their endorsement means everything to me, and I will never take it for granted."

The evening featured remarks from union leaders representing both locals, who spoke directly about what's at stake in this race — from public safety funding to collective bargaining rights to having a state senator who actually picks up the phone. Their message to the crowd was simple: Dave Ward listens, Dave Ward shows up, and Dave Ward will fight for working families in Richmond.

Ward took the stage last, laying out the vision that has driven his decision to run — more state resources returned to local communities, support for first responders, and a Senate seat that belongs to the people of District 24, not to special interests or outside money.

The energy didn't stop when the speeches ended. Volunteers signed up to canvass, phone bank, and spread the word across the district. Ward's campaign team was busy collecting contact information and getting supporters into the system before people even made it to the door.

This is what a people-powered campaign looks like on day one. And Dave Ward is just getting started.