Kelly Fowler

Kelly Fowler is a Democratic member of the Virginia House of Delegates, representing District 96. She has been in office since January 2018, following her election in November 2017. Fowler has been actively involved in various legislative committees, including the Privileges and Elections Committee and the Science and Technology Committee. Her political career is marked by her commitment to serving her constituents and addressing issues relevant to her district.

Early life and career

Kelly Fowler was born and raised in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She has a diverse heritage, being of Filipino and Mexican descent, which contributes to her unique perspective as a legislator. Fowler completed her secondary education at Tallwood High School in Virginia Beach before pursuing higher education at Virginia Wesleyan College. There, she earned a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, equipping her with a solid foundation for understanding social issues and the legal system.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Fowler furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Education from Old Dominion University. This academic background led her to a career in education, where she began teaching at Lynnhaven Elementary School. Her experience in the classroom provided her with insights into the educational needs of her community and the challenges faced by students and teachers alike.

Fowler later transitioned from education to entrepreneurship, co-founding a home renovation business with her husband. Their business focuses on serving military families, reflecting Fowler's commitment to supporting those who serve in the armed forces. This venture allowed her to engage with the community in a different capacity and gain practical experience in business management.

Legislative service

Fowler's political career began when she decided to run for a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates during the 2017 election cycle. She faced incumbent Ron Villanueva, who was also of Filipino American descent. In a competitive race, Fowler emerged victorious, securing 52.3% of the vote. This victory marked a significant milestone, as she and fellow candidate Kathy Tran became the first Asian-American women elected to the Virginia House of Delegates.

Once in office, Fowler continued to build on her political influence by running for reelection in 2019. She successfully defeated Republican challenger Shannon D.S. Kane, receiving 54.5% of the vote. Her ability to maintain her seat demonstrated her growing support within her district.

In 2021, Fowler sought a third term in a particularly close race against Tanya Gould. The election was one of the tightest in Virginia that year, with Fowler winning by a narrow margin of 1%. This close contest underscored the competitive nature of her district and the importance of her legislative work.

Throughout her tenure, Fowler has participated in various legislative discussions and decisions. Notably, during the 2020 special session, she abstained from voting on a bill aimed at ending qualified immunity for law enforcement. Her abstention was influenced by her personal circumstances, as her husband, David Fowler, was a deputy sheriff at the time. This decision played a crucial role in the bill's outcome.

In the 2023 election, Fowler was reelected to represent District 96, continuing her legislative work and commitment to her constituents. Her chief of staff is Rennie Wilkinson, who assists her in managing her office and legislative responsibilities.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, Kelly Fowler has focused on a range of policy issues that reflect the needs and interests of her constituents in District 96. Her background in education and her experience as a business owner inform her approach to legislative matters, particularly those related to education, public safety, and community support.

Fowler's work on the Privileges and Elections Committee highlights her commitment to ensuring fair electoral processes and protecting the rights of voters. This committee plays a vital role in shaping legislation related to elections, voting rights, and the overall integrity of the electoral system in Virginia.

Additionally, her involvement in the Science and Technology Committee reflects her interest in advancing policies that promote innovation and address technological challenges facing the state. This committee's work is crucial in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where issues such as cybersecurity, data privacy, and access to technology are increasingly relevant.

Fowler's district, District 96, encompasses parts of Virginia Beach, a diverse and vibrant area with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The district is home to a variety of communities, including military families, which has influenced Fowler's legislative priorities. Her business background in home renovations for military families has likely shaped her understanding of the unique challenges they face, including housing stability and access to resources.

In her personal life, Fowler is married to William Fowler, and they have three children. Her family background and experiences as a parent inform her perspectives on education and community support. William Fowler's previous role as a deputy sheriff and subsequent legal challenges have also influenced her views on law enforcement and public safety.

Fowler publicly came out as bisexual during a Pride event in Virginia Beach in June 2022, reflecting her commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility and representation. This aspect of her identity may also inform her legislative priorities and advocacy efforts.

In 2023, Fowler made headlines by claiming to possess the personal laptop of the Virginia Beach mass shooter, which she reportedly received from a victim's family. She expressed concerns regarding the initial investigation by the Virginia Beach police and later turned the laptop over to her attorney and the Virginia Attorney General's Office. This incident highlights her engagement with significant community issues and her willingness to address complex and sensitive topics.

Overall, Kelly Fowler's legislative career is characterized by her dedication to her constituents, her focus on education and public safety, and her commitment to representing the diverse voices within her district. As she continues her service in the Virginia House of Delegates, her background and experiences will likely continue to shape her legislative priorities and actions.