Because of historic inflation levels, Americans are paying much higher prices on goods than ever before and it doesn’t stop at the borders of the Commonwealth. Virginia’s economy has been harmed and is struggling to grow. As a financial advisor who has run a small business, Mike has unique insights into how we must recover, rebuild, and reenergize Virginia’s economy. Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy – high taxes and unnecessary regulations have hindered private businesses and job growth in our communities. Mike knows very well that our laws need to incentivize a thriving economy and encourage entrepreneurship in the Commonwealth. He will fight to make sure hard-working Virginians do not get left behind.
Mike is a school board member who has two school-aged children and knows how critical allowing school choice is for all Virginians. With lower school standards and political agendas in the classroom
students’ quality of education has paid a heavy price; their mental health, social development, and academic progress have suffered tremendously. Moreover, working parents have had to choose between putting dinner on the table or helping supplement their children’s educational needs. In Richmond, Mike will ensure all Virginia schools remain safely open, expand access to more school choice, and increase funding for trade and vocational training.
Mike’s wife is a physician, so he knows how vital access to quality, affordable healthcare is to Virginia families. In Richmond, he will work hard to lower drug prices, allow insurance to be sold across state lines, and cut through red tape to modernize the way we deliver health care in Virginia. It’s time to return decision-making to families and their doctors and make healthcare more accessible for everyone.
It’s no secret that Hampton Roads is home to ongoing road, highway, and bridge construction projects. We must have roads that are accessible and safe so that commerce is not impeded. These massive infrastructural projects have enormous budgets, and the taxpayers deserve a delegate in Richmond who will provide responsible oversight to make sure these projects are completed on time and on budget. As your delegate, Mike will ensure that the Hampton Roads transportation system is kept up to date and ready to service our region’s growing population. Mike is committed to keeping Hampton Roads moving because he knows a strong infrastructure is key to a strong economy.
Law enforcement and first responders are the unsung heroes that keep our neighborhoods and communities safe. Virginia’s public safety community is on the front lines working to protect their neighbors whenever disaster strikes. Unfortunately, many in Richmond have called to defund the police and have left our communities less safe. As delegate, Mike will always back the brave men and women that sacrifice their lives for ours. Instead of defunding them, Mike will deliver additional resources, training, and always protect our men and women in law enforcement. The leadership and strength of our law enforcement and first responders are what continue to make Virginia a prime place for families to live.
Covid-19 has shut down our schools, closed main street, and halted our way of life. All the while, career politicians have weaponized Covid-19 to score cheap political points. As Delegate, Mike will ensure the vaccine is rolled out to every corner of the state, prioritize taking care of those who are most vulnerable, and prepare Virginia in case of future pandemics. The first step
to recovery begins by getting students back in class, reopening businesses, and continuing to provide vaccines and PPE.
For more than a quarter of a century, Mike Dillender served the nation in the U.S. Navy – protecting and defending our Constitution throughout the world. As our delegate, Mike will lead with the core values that were instilled within him throughout his naval career –Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Mike will represent the entire district, rather than only the select few. As a very successful military leader, business owner, school board member and church leader, Mike has exceptional senior executive skill sets to best represent the interests of the people of his District in Richmond. As a highly engaged and dynamic leader, Mike excels in communication skills and will always be very responsive to his constituents’ concerns and issues.