Recount Concludes: Who Said A Republican Could Not Win In Portsmouth!
Portsmouth, VA -
In a stunning outcome that capped an intense and contentious election cycle, Dr. Bill Dodson emerged victorious over incumbent Democrat Backed Councilman De’Andre Barnes following a meticulous recount. Dodson, who initially led by 21 votes heading into the recount, held his narrow lead to become Portsmouth’s newest city leader. When the dust settled, Dodson secured his victory by 33 votes, marking a significant milestone in a city long dominated by Democrat control.
The recount wasn’t the only challenge looming over Councilman Barnes. It’s been a tumultuous month for the incumbent, who faced not one but two arrests in recent weeks. This latest loss compounds what has been a particularly rough stretch for Barnes, underscoring the mounting frustration many Portsmouth residents feel about the city’s leadership.
For Dodson, this win is about more than numbers—it represents a shift in momentum. A local endodontist, master distiller, and former aerospace engineer, Dr. Dodson brings a rare and impressive combination of skills to the table. He ran alongside two successful candidates, Kathryn “Kitty” Bryant and Yolanda Edmonds Thomas, in a crowded field of 11 contenders vying for a place in Portsmouth’s leadership.
A Vision of Unity and Renewal
Throughout his campaign, Dr. Dodson struck a positive and forward-thinking tone, promising to bring competence, stability, and vision to a city that has long been plagued by dysfunction. His platform emphasized uniting the community around a shared purpose and implementing a holistic plan to rebuild trust in local governance. For Portsmouth’s weary residents, Dodson’s pragmatic approach resonated.
At the heart of his message were key priorities that Portsmouth sorely needs: infrastructure improvements, economic development, and a renewed focus on citizen involvement. Dodson repeatedly emphasized returning to the basics of governance—ensuring effective city services, restoring accountability, and driving initiatives that uplift both businesses and residents.
A City in Crisis
Portsmouth has, in recent years, become synonymous with political instability and public dysfunction. Residents have watched with frustration as city leaders engaged in bitter public arguments, leading to a revolving door of high-profile staff resignations and terminations. Meanwhile, violent crime has gripped the city, leaving many residents fearful and disillusioned.
These struggles have cast a long shadow over Portsmouth—a city that should be thriving but instead has been burdened by its leadership’s inability to deliver meaningful change. For years, the Democrat establishment, led by powerful figures like House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott and President Pro-Tempore of the Virginia Senate Louise Lucas, has held a firm grip on Portsmouth’s political machinery. Their influence extends far beyond Portsmouth, shaping policies that impact the Commonwealth as a whole.
Yet Dodson’s election sends a clear message: cracks are beginning to form in the once-impenetrable Democrat stronghold.
A Turning Point?
For Republicans and independents in Portsmouth, Dodson’s victory signals hope—a belief that change is not only possible but attainable. It challenges the assumption that Republicans cannot compete, let alone win, in cities long entrenched in Democrat control.
Dodson’s win raises a powerful question: Could his success inspire others to step forward, to take on battles that once seemed unwinnable? In a city desperate for stability, accountability, and real leadership, Dodson’s victory may very well be a turning point.
As Portsmouth looks ahead, the challenge will be delivering on the promises made. For Dodson, the work begins now. His campaign spoke of unity, competence, and a vision for the future—now, he must transform that vision into action.
Who said a Republican couldn’t win in Portsmouth?
Certainly not Dr. Bill Dodson.