A well-informed, engaged citizenry is essential for a stable and healthy republic. Department of Political Science and Geography faculty have often been featured prominently in regional and national media coverage during election cycles. This fall 2025, Dr. Jesse Richman has been providing expert analysis on state and federal political developments around redistricting, federal government shutdown, and the gubernatorial race in the Commonwealth. An Associate Professor of Political Science, Professor Richman has served as a go-to commentator for multiple news outlets over the past month. His media appearances included an interview with WAVY TV's Chris Horne on September 29 regarding the pending government shutdown, demonstrating the department's engagement with federal policy issues.
Throughout early October, Professor Richman provided extensive coverage and analysis of Virginia's gubernatorial race. He appeared multiple times on WAVY TV with reporters Michael Rinker and Andy Fox, offering pre-debate commentary on October 2 and 8, participating in a debate analysis panel on October 9, and delivering post-debate analysis on October 10. His expertise also reached audiences beyond Hampton Roads through an interview with WUSA, the CBS affiliate in Washington, DC, on October 10.
Additionally, Professor Richman was interviewed by Grace McKinnon of The Daily Signal on October 6 concerning the gubernatorial debate, and discussed the Leticia James indictment with WTKR's Romelo Styles on October 10.
These appearances underscore the department's role as a vital resource for informed political commentary in Virginia and the broader Mid-Atlantic region, connecting academic expertise with public discourse on critical governance issues. Kudos to Dr. Richman for sharing his expertise, insights, and raising the visibility of Old Dominion.