From Classroom to Legislature: Justin Burns' Vision for Virginia's Future

Send us Fan MailA third-grade teacher with a passion for change is stepping into the political arena. Justin Burns, Virginia Beach native and special education inclusion teacher, shares his journey and vision as a candidate for Virginia State Delegate representing District 100—a diverse area encompassing Northwestern Virginia Beach and the Eastern Shore counties of Accomac and Northampton.Burns speaks candidly about what drove him to run: deep concern for children's futures, particularly regarding education funding, healthcare access, and economic opportunity. His firsthand classroom experience informs his urgent warning about potential federal education cuts that would devastate special education programs and widen the gap between affluent and low-income communities. "It would be a revert back to really the Jim Crow era...maybe not so much in as of race, but socioeconomically," Burns explains, highlighting how his district's Eastern Shore communities—where median household income falls $36,000 below the state average—would suffer most.The conversation delves into the affordable housing crisis gripping the Eastern Shore, where both workforce and family housing options are scarce. Burns advocates for developer incentives to build more accessible housing, understanding the ripple effects on employment, transportation, and community stability. Environmental challenges also feature prominently in his platform, with the district's coastal geography making rising sea levels and sustainable development urgent priorities for residents bordering both the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.As a young candidate in a Republican-leaning district, Burns brings an organizer's mindset to a challenging political landscape. Rather than shying away from difficult conversations, he's meeting voters where they are—even Republican farmers concerned about vanishing agricultural grants. His approach focuses on finding common ground around shared priorities: family success, quality education, environmental protection, and economic stability. "At the end of the day, we all want the same things," Burns reflects, demonstrating the bridge-building approach he believes can overcome political polarization.Visit BurnsForVirginia.com to learn more about his campaign, volunteer opportunities, and where Justin will be meeting with voters throughout District 100. Your engagement matters in shaping Virginia's future!Support the showDo us a favor and like, comment, share, and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. To see the full video on YouTube go to Listen Up with Host Al NeelyReach out to us on our socials and hit us up with any questions!Email: [email protected]:  ListenUp4UFacebook: Let's Talk About It - Listen Up Twitter: ListenUp@Listenup4UWebsite: listenup.bizYouTube: Listen Up with Host Al Neely