Equality Arlington Grades 2024 County Board General Election Candidates
Equality Arlington sent the four candidates running for County Board in the November 2024 General Election a questionnaire with four questions about issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community in Arlington, Virginia. We received responses from three candidates. The Board of Directors evaluated the candidates’ responses and provided grades for the candidates based on how well their responses demonstrate an understanding of the needs of the LGBTQ+ community and how their proposed actions or inaction would impact the LGBTQ+ community. We have also published the unedited responses of each of the candidates below. We requested that candidates limit their responses to each question to 200 words.
Early voting began Friday, September 20th and continues through Saturday, November 2nd. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5th (polls open 6am-7pm). For more information about voting, please go to Elections – Arlington County VA Voting and Elections (arlingtonva.gov).
Julius “JD” Spain: A
Julius (JD) Spain, a Democrat running for Arlington County Board, received an A rating because the candidate outlined an ambitious set of policy proposals that reflected an understanding of the issues impacting LGBTQ+ residents as well as existing county policies and programs. Spain’s responses focused specifically on LGBTQ+ individuals and their unique needs and incorporated best practices in addressing their housing, safety, and healthcare. If Spain is elected, we look forward to seeing his efforts to secure funding and support to implement the policies and programs he outlined.
Madison Granger: B
Madison Granger, a Forward Party candidate running for County Board, received a B rating because the candidate demonstrated a strong understanding of existing county policies and programs. However, Granger’s responses often did not focus on the specific and unique needs of LGBTQ+ residents. While many of the incremental change-focused proposals in her responses would likely benefit some members of the LGBTQ+ community, these proposals are less likely to have a direct impact on LGBTQ+ residents compared with more targeted policies and programs. If Granger is elected, we hope she will work with Equality Arlington and other stakeholders to understand how the needs of LGBTQ+ residents may differ from other residents and require more tailored solutions.
Audrey Clement: D
Audrey Clement, an Independent running for Arlington County Board, received a D rating because the candidate’s responses often failed to address the issue raised in the question and her response to a question about safety for the LGBTQ+ community was incredibly disappointing and harmful. In response to a question that referenced the recent bomb threat at Freddie’s Beach Bar, Clement blamed the danger on those receiving the threats, suggesting that Freddie’s would not have to worry about hate groups threatening to blow it up if it did not host family-friendly drag story hours. If Clement is elected, we hope she will demonstrate greater concern for the safety of LGBTQ+ residents instead of making excuses for those threatening harm.
Juan Carlos Fierro: F
Juan Carlos Fierro, a Republican running for Arlington County Board, received an F rating because the candidate failed to respond to or acknowledge the request for responses after three attempts to contact the candidate at the email address provided on his Candidate Committee filing.
Candidate Questionnaire & Responses
Question 1 – LGBTQ+ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than non-LGBTQ+ youth and are estimated to make up 40% of the youth homeless population in the United States (43% of homeless youth in D.C. identify as LGBTQ+). LGBTQ+ adults experiencing homelessness are at greater risk of sexual abuse, discrimination, and stigma. Unhoused residents have been experiencing waits of one to three months just to enter county-supported shelters and the county lacks enough affordable housing for residents looking to transition from shelters to independent living. How do you propose addressing the significant needs of Arlington’s unhoused population, especially vulnerable LGBTQ+ residents?
Audrey Clement (Independent) - One way to increase housing affordability for moderate income residents would be to reinstate the tax credit for renovation of multi-family dwellings that was rescinded by County Board in its FY 2021 Budget (Budget, book 87-web 97). https://arlingtonva.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2020/02/FY-21-Proposed-All-in-one-02242020.pdf While the tax credit would not enable wealth generation for tenants, it would incentivize landlords to provide more livable housing and thereby improve their tenants’ quality of life. The fact that three quarters of the market rate affordable housing in the County disappeared within twenty years belies Arlington County’s commitment to it.
Juan Carlos Fierro (Republican) - Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Madison Granger (Forward Party) - Arlington County has a robust system in place for addressing homelessness under Continuum of Care. We’re doing many things right and I support continued funding for organizations like Path Forward and Bridges to Independence to ensure we continue doing these things right. I commend these organizations for supporting people in crisis and helping them get back on their feet. There are areas needing improvement. Regarding the wait times to enter shelters, Arlington should strengthen its Shelter Diversion and Targeted Prevention efforts, which are already working to alleviate shelter demand, and its Rapid-Rehousing program, which is already working to increase supply of shelter beds. Targeted Prevention efforts should include proactive partnering with local groups like Equality Arlington, whose community may be at greater risk for homelessness, to ensure at-risk individuals know how to access resources already in place. Regarding the lack of affordable housing available for transition out of shelters, I’d explore partnerships with neighboring localities to expand inventory, particularly housing that is well connected to public transport (potentially subsidizing the use of that transport while these individuals get back on their feet). I also support continuing to incentivize developers to increase supply of affordable housing in Arlington.
JD Spain (Democrat) - Despite Arlington's support for residents facing housing insecurity, hundreds of residents are chronically homeless. We need to fund these supports fully and other actions needed to implement our newly adopted Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness so that no Arlington resident needs to resort to Homelessness. Specifically supporting LGBTQ+ residents experiencing Homelessness requires a multi-faceted strategy that includes the following: 1. Conducting a needs assessment for LGBTQ+ residents experiencing Homelessness in Arlington can provide valuable insights into their specific needs, experiences, and barriers to accessing services. 2. Establishing LGBTQ+ affirming shelters, supportive housing options, and service programs can create a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ residents experiencing Homelessness. 3. Advocating for policies that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in housing and homelessness services, as well as securing dedicated funding for LGBTQ+ affirming programs and initiatives, are essential steps to ensuring that Arlington can effectively support LGBTQ+ residents experiencing Homelessness. Suppose we implement these strategies and prioritize the needs of LGBTQ+ residents experiencing Homelessness. In that case, Arlington can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment where all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can access the services and support they need to thrive here with dignity.
Question 2 – LGBTQ+ individuals are coming under increased political and violent attacks throughout the country. Freddie’s Beach Bar in Crystal City, Arlington’s only gay bar, was subject to a bomb threat earlier this year for holding a drag story hour for families. Vandals have repeatedly targeted churches and private homes by stealing and destroying Pride flags. LGBTQ+ students in Arlington Public Schools report higher rates of bullying, depressive symptoms, and sexual harassment. What do you believe Arlington should do to be a community where LGBTQ+ residents not only feel safe, but thrive?
Audrey Clement (Independent) - First, APS should enforce a strict policy against bullying of all types, and Arlington residents should be encouraged by their leaders—including faith leaders—to report acts of vandalism that they’ve witnessed to the police. Regarding the recent targeting of gay bars, the word “adult” in adult bookstore implies that the sexually explicit material sold there is for an adult audience. Likewise gay bars should adopt policies that limit attendance at drag events to an adult audience. Screening attendance at drag events should in turn discourage provocations from opponents of gay rights. Another initiative I would promote to enhance the safety of all county residents is to restore adequate funding to the Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) which has frozen dozens of positions due to lack of funding.
Juan Carlos Fierro (Republican) - Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Madison Granger (Forward Party) - Hate crimes should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We need to ensure that our police force is fully staffed so we are ready to quickly respond to reports of harassment. This way we can keep at-risk individuals safe and hold perpetrators accountable. We currently have somewhere around 60 vacancies, which is puts the community’s safety at risk. I believe the county should prioritize funding towards efforts to fill these vacancies. And we should continue with efforts like Pride with the Police to build relationships between the LGBTQ+ community and those employed by the county to help keep them (and all our community members) safe. The County Board can also set a tone of acceptance and safety in how it interacts with the LGBTQ+ community day-to-day and ensure it continues investing in inclusive “third spaces” where everyone in our community can feel at home and build relationships with neighbors of all kinds.
JD Spain (Democrat) - Ensuring safety, inclusion, and support for the LGBTQ+ community within Arlington's programs and services is crucial for promoting a welcoming environment for all residents. To better address LGBTQ+ community needs, actions I support include: 1. Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the specific challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in Arlington. This can help understand what services are lacking and where improvements are needed. 2. Enhance LGBTQ+ Advisory Boards to help ensure services are designed to meet the community's needs and aspirations. 3. Develop and expand youth programs with APS that specifically cater to the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, providing a safe and supportive environment for them to socialize, access resources, and develop leadership skills. 4. Collaborate and organize additional community events, workshops, and support groups focused on LGBTQ+ issues to foster a sense of belonging and connection within the community. 5. Create a centralized resource hub within Arlington County that provides information on LGBTQ+-friendly services, support groups, healthcare providers, legal resources, and social events within Arlington. Collaboration with community members, stakeholders, and organizations is critical to ensuring that services are developed with the input and feedback of those they are intended to serve. I also want to explore Arlington County adoption of a Gender Inclusion Policy.
Question 3 – Do you support Clarendon Presbyterian Church, in partnership with True Ground Housing Partners (formerly APAH), in their efforts to redevelop their land to include affordable LGBTQ+ welcoming senior housing?
Audrey Clement (Independent) - I support the inclusion of affordable LGBTQ+ welcoming senior housing in redevelopment of the Clarendon Presbyterian Church site consistent with the height limits outlined in the Clarendon Sector Plan for the north side of 13th Street. The site should also be developed consistent with federal and state laws governing the award of Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) for investment in affordable housing--assuming that developer True Ground applies for such credits. LIHTC projects must set aside a percent of the housing units constructed or rehabbed for low income households. State housing agencies can prioritize projects by awarding credits based on additional criteria such housing for seniors, provision of permanent supportive housing, and programs for residents. If the project complies with local, state and federal regulations, LBGTQ+ applicants who meet the age/income requirements will qualify for housing at the site.
Juan Carlos Fierro (Republican) - Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Madison Granger (Forward Party) - I support this effort as a smart way to take underutilized space that is a burden to its current owners and turn it into something that is of much greater use to the community. The county government should support efforts like this to transition spaces to align with changing needs. Arlington cannot be frozen in time. I believe appropriate community engagement should occur with stakeholders in the neighborhood to understand their concerns and find ways to address them where appropriate. Overall, I am in support of finding ways to move this initiative forward.
JD Spain (Democrat) - Yes, I support the development of affordable housing geared toward LGBTQ+ seniors in Arlington, as it will significantly impact the community.
Creating an intentionally safe and inclusive housing option for LGBTQ+ seniors can address the specific interests, as well as needs and challenges faced by this population, such as discrimination, isolation, and lack of affirming social support. By providing affordable housing specifically tailored to LGBTQ+ seniors, Clarendon Presbyterian Church and True Ground Housing Partners have the opportunity to foster a more welcoming and supportive environment for this valued, vulnerable demographic within our community. This partnership aligns with my values of inclusion, collaboration, and creativity. By working together, they can leverage their resources, expertise, and networks to create a sustainable and impactful housing solution that uplifts LGBTQ+ seniors. It is essential also to consider the broader impact of this redevelopment project on the local community, including how it aligns with zoning regulations, community preferences, and the overall vision for sustainable and inclusive development. Engaging with key stakeholders, conducting community consultations, and ensuring transparency throughout the planning and implementation process will help mitigate concerns and address any challenges.
Question 4 – Many LGBTQ+ residents report difficulty finding healthcare resources such as STI testing, HIV services, and gender-affirming care without leaving Arlington County. With HIV infection rates having increased by 58% percent in Arlington County since 2022, mostly among young adults, what would you do as a County Board member to ensure that LGBTQ+ residents have access to crucial sexual health and public health services and information?
Audrey Clement (Independent) - If the HIV infection rate is up by 58% since 2022, that’s not evident from the County’s FY 2025 budget proposal, which reported no increase in HIV infection rate, number of cases, or treatments provided by the Community Health Services program (p. 595). https://www.arlingtonva.us/files/sharedassets/public/v/18/budget/documents/fy-2025/fy-2025-proposed/fy25p_all-in-one-web-02232024.pdf The budget proposal further reported: The total number of STI Clinic visits has increased over the past two years as a result of strong partnership with NOVASalud and the increase in the overall accessibility to screening, which was halted during the pandemic. The number of VA Medication Assistance Program (VA MAP) clients has remained constant in the past two years. Clients who are ineligible for state supported insurance programs or lack access to medical insurance coverage continue to be served as well (p. 596). If elected I will seek to resolve the discrepancy in reported HIV incidence between Equality Arlington and the County Manager by soliciting an explanation from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) director.
Juan Carlos Fierro (Republican) - Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Madison Granger (Forward Party) - As with my response to question 1, I believe Arlington is already doing many things right and I support continuing to provide funding towards these efforts, including the Arlington County Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Clinic on Washington Boulevard. If we are consistently seeing that there are substantial wait times or inability to address specific issues, I would support efforts to help provide transportation between this clinic and other regional clinics and partners we are connected with. We should also leverage existing relationships, like with Equality Arlington and with the police liaison team, so circulate information about existing services.
JD Spain (Democrat) - As your County Board member, I am committed to advocating for policies and initiatives prioritizing the health and well-being of all residents, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. Here are several actions I would take to ensure that LGBTQ+ residents have access to crucial sexual health and public health services and information: 1. Implement targeted education and awareness campaigns about HIV prevention, sexual health, and the importance of regular STI testing among LGBTQ+ residents and young adults. 2. Expand access to LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare providers, clinics, and community health centers that offer comprehensive sexual health services, including accessing Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), HIV testing, counseling, and treatment. 3. Collaborate with key LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, community organizations, and public health agencies to develop targeted programs and initiatives that specifically address the needs of LGBTQ+ residents in terms of sexual health services. These partnerships can help reach and engage the LGBTQ+ community effectively in promoting sexual health and reducing HIV transmission. By taking a holistic approach that addresses underlying factors of health disparities, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring that LGBTQ+ residents have equitable access to crucial sexual health services while promoting overall health and well-being.
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Click here to view the PDF candidate grades and responses