Don Beyer

Donald Sternoff Beyer Jr., born on June 20, 1950, is a prominent American politician, businessman, and diplomat. He has been serving as the U.S. representative for Virginia's 8th congressional district since 2015, representing a diverse area that includes Alexandria, Falls Church, Arlington, and parts of eastern Fairfax County. A dedicated member of the Democratic Party, Beyer has made significant contributions to his community throughout his career.

Before his tenure in Congress, Beyer was deeply involved in Virginia's political landscape. He served as the 36th lieutenant governor of Virginia from 1990 to 1998, under the administrations of Doug Wilder and George Allen. In 1997, he was the Democratic nominee for governor but was defeated by Republican Jim Gilmore. His political journey also includes a notable role as the United States Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein from 2009 to 2013, appointed by President Barack Obama.

In 2014, Beyer announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives, successfully winning the Democratic primary with forty-five percent of the vote. He continued his momentum into the general election, securing sixty-three percent of the vote against his opponent. Since then, he has been reelected five times, with his most recent victory occurring in 2024.

In addition to his political career, Beyer has a background in the automotive industry, having owned several automobile dealerships in Virginia. His commitment to community service and philanthropy is well-documented, reflecting his dedication to improving the lives of those in his district.