Delegate Irene Shin of Virginia’s 86th House District made history today as she was sworn in as the first female Korean American member in the 402 years of Virginia’s State House. “I could not be more excited to begin my service to the 86th district. I was elected on a platform of effective, progressive representation for our district and Virginia, and I cannot wait to get to work.” 

Michelle Maldonado, Irene Shin and Elizabeth Bennett-Parker are not household names in Virginia politics.

"I hope the voters will send Irene to serve us in the 86th so that she can work with me on the issues that matter to our residents. I know that with Irene in the House, I will have an effective partner and the voters of this district will have a duo of progressive champions who know how to get things done.”

Statement of Congressman Kim: “Zero. That’s how many Korean American women have been elected to the Virginia legislature. This year we can change history by electing the first Korean American woman to the House of Delegates, Irene Shin.

“Irene will be a passionate and committed public servant,” said KADC President Steve Kang.

“Irene is exactly who we need representing the voters and residents of Herndon in Richmond right now,” said Greg Brandon.

“I’m proud to support my friend Irene Shin in her bid to represent the 86th House District. Irene is a proven progressive who will bring a fresh approach and effective leadership to the House of Delegates,” said Kofi Annan.

Irene Shin announces her Ethical Virginia Campaign Reform Package, which eliminates conflicts of interest between legislators and donors, makes sure state resources aren’t used for political purposes, and puts much needed enforcement and penalties into campaign finance law enforcement.

Democrat Irene Shin, a nonprofit organizer from Herndon, has announced she is running for the 86th House of Delegates seat currently held by Del. Ibraheem Samirah (D).