Elaine McConnell Luria was born on August 15, 1975, in Birmingham, Alabama, and grew up in a Navy family that instilled in her a lifelong commitment to service. Luria followed in her family’s footsteps, graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1997 and embarking on a distinguished 20-year career as a surface warfare officer in the U.S. Navy, including command of the USS William P. Lawrence and leadership roles in counter-terrorism operations around the world. After retiring from the Navy with the rank of Commander, she settled in Virginia and became active in community and veterans’ affairs. In 2018, Luria was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia’s 2nd District, which includes Virginia Beach and parts of southeastern Virginia. A moderate Democrat in a swing district, she served three terms in Congress (2019–2025), focusing on national security, constituent services, and bipartisan problem-solving. Luria chose not to run for re-election in 2024 but remained engaged in public life, working with veterans organizations and advocating for commonsense policies. In 2025 she announced her campaign to return to Congress in the 2026 election for VA-02, aiming to bring experienced leadership, national security expertise, and an independent record of service back to the House.
Key Issue Stances & Priorities
- National Security & Veterans: Luria’s military career informs her strong focus on national defense, veterans’ healthcare and benefits, and support for military families. She advocates for a robust, smart defense strategy that protects American interests and works with international allies.
- Lowering Costs & Economic Opportunity: She supports policies to reduce costs for families — including affordable healthcare, prescription-drug pricing reform, and expanded economic opportunity for service members and civilians alike.
- Bipartisan Problem-Solving: Known for crossing the aisle, Luria emphasizes pragmatic governance and consensus-building. She worked with members of both parties to deliver results for Virginia, particularly on infrastructure, military facilities, and coastal resilience.
- Infrastructure, Coastal Resilience & Flood Mitigation: Representing a district vulnerable to sea-level rise and storms, Luria prioritizes federal investment in infrastructure, coastal protection, hurricane and flood mitigation, and transportation upgrades.
- Healthcare & Services for Families: She supports protecting and strengthening healthcare access, mental health resources for veterans and families, and expanding care in underserved communities.
- Defending Democracy: Luria has championed voting rights protections, common-sense election reforms, and efforts to safeguard democratic institutions against polarization and extremism.
Accomplishments & Track Record
- U.S. Naval Officer & Commander: Served 20 years in the U.S. Navy with command experience and operational leadership — expertise rare among members of Congress.
- Delivered for VA-02: As a three-term member of the House, Luria helped secure federal funding for coastal defense, military infrastructure, transportation projects, and veterans’ services in southeastern Virginia.
- Bipartisan Credibility: Recognized by the Lugar Center and other groups for high rates of bipartisan bill sponsorship and cooperation.
- National Security Expertise: Brought thoughtful defense and foreign-policy insights to a district that is home to major naval installations and military families.
- Constituent Service: Built a reputation for responsive service, particularly for military families, retirees, and local governments navigating federal programs.
As a former small business owner, rising costs and economic instability aren’t just talking points. It’s the reality that this Administration and the current leaders in Washington have created for small business owners and families throughout Hampton Roads.
- Elaine Luria