Democrat James Walkinshaw won a special election to represent Virginia’s 11th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, according to The Associated Press.

The victory was reported Sept. 9, 2025. Walkinshaw will fill the seat in the House that was being contested in the special election and serve for the remainder of the term.

Special elections are used to fill vacancies that occur between regularly scheduled elections; the winner takes office to complete the unexpired term. Details about Walkinshaw’s margin of victory, the identity and performance of his opponents, and the specific circumstances that prompted the special election were not included in the initial AP dispatch.

The outcome adds a new member to the House from Virginia’s 11th District as Congress continues its legislative session. Members elected in special elections assume responsibilities immediately upon being sworn in and can participate in committee work and floor votes for the remainder of the term.

Walkinshaw’s victory was reported by national wire services and picked up by media outlets covering federal races. The result will be reflected in official tallies and the House clerk’s roster once the winner completes administrative requirements for taking office.

Further reporting is expected to provide additional details on voter turnout, voting patterns within the district, campaign issues that shaped the contest and statements from Walkinshaw and his competitors. Congressional offices customarily announce swearing-in dates and initial legislative priorities after election results are certified.

This seat’s special election came amid a series of off-cycle federal and state contests that have drawn attention for their potential to influence the balance of power and legislative dynamics in Washington. Observers often watch special elections for signals about voter sentiment, though each contest is shaped by local factors specific to the district and candidates involved.

The Associated Press reported the result Sept. 9, 2025; ABC News summarized the wire report.