Josh Cole

Joshua Gregory Cole is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 65th district. A member of the Democratic Party, Cole has a history of political engagement and community service, including previous legislative experience and leadership roles within various organizations. He was born on July 25, 1990, in Washington, D.C., and has established himself as a prominent figure in Virginia politics.

Early life and career

Josh Cole was born in Washington, D.C., and spent his formative years in Stafford County, Virginia. He completed his secondary education at North Stafford High School, where he likely developed an interest in civic engagement and community affairs. Following high school, Cole pursued higher education at Liberty University, where he studied for three years. He later continued his academic journey at the University of Mary Washington, furthering his education and preparing for a career in public service.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Cole has built a diverse professional background. He has worked for Liberty University and Richmond City Public Schools, gaining experience in both educational and administrative roles. His career also includes a significant commitment to community service; he has served as a pastor and held the position of immediate past president of the Stafford County chapter of the NAACP. These roles have likely contributed to his understanding of the needs and concerns of his constituents.

Cole's involvement in politics began to take shape through various staff positions within the Virginia Assembly. Notably, he served as the chief of staff to Delegate Kelly Convirs-Fowler between the 2017 and 2019 elections. This experience provided him with valuable insights into the legislative process and the workings of state government, laying the groundwork for his future electoral endeavors.

Legislative service

Josh Cole's political career began in earnest when he ran for the Virginia House of Delegates in the 2017 election, seeking to represent the 28th district. Although he campaigned vigorously, he lost the election to Republican Bob Thomas by a narrow margin of 73 votes. This initial setback did not deter Cole; he announced his candidacy for the same seat in the 2019 election, where he faced Paul V. Milde, a former Stafford County Supervisor who had won the Republican primary. In this election, Cole successfully garnered 51.8% of the vote, marking his entry into the Virginia House of Delegates.

During his tenure in the House, Cole was recognized for his advocacy and received endorsements from various organizations and prominent political figures. In 2021, he sought re-election and was supported by the LGBTQ Victory Fund, which aims to elect LGBTQ candidates to public office. His campaign also received backing from The Collective PAC, as well as endorsements from notable politicians including Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Barack Obama. Despite this support, Cole was defeated in the November 2021 election by Tara Durant, marking a significant moment in his political journey.

In 2023, following the decision of incumbent Tara Durant to run for the Virginia Senate, Cole declared his candidacy for the newly redrawn 65th district. His campaign was successful, and he won the general election, returning to the Virginia House of Delegates. Cole continued to build on his political momentum and was re-elected in 2025, defeating his Republican challenger Sean Steinway by a comfortable margin.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, Josh Cole has focused on various policy areas that reflect the interests and needs of his constituents in the 65th district. While specific legislative initiatives and policy proposals are not detailed, his background in education, community service, and civil rights advocacy suggests a commitment to issues related to education reform, social justice, and community development.

Cole's experience as a pastor and his leadership role in the NAACP indicate a strong dedication to civil rights and equity, which likely informs his legislative priorities. His previous endorsements from organizations such as the LGBTQ Victory Fund suggest a focus on inclusivity and representation for marginalized communities, aligning with broader Democratic Party values.

The 65th district, which Cole represents, encompasses a diverse population with varying needs and concerns. As a legislator, he is tasked with addressing these issues while advocating for policies that promote the welfare of his constituents. His electoral success and re-election demonstrate a level of support from the community, indicating that his policy focus resonates with the voters in his district.

In summary, Josh Cole's journey from his early life in Stafford County to his current role in the Virginia House of Delegates illustrates a commitment to public service and community engagement. His legislative career, marked by both challenges and successes, reflects the dynamic nature of political life and the importance of representation in government. As he continues to serve in the Virginia House of Delegates, Cole's focus on education, civil rights, and community advocacy will likely remain central to his work in the legislature.