Democrat · Virginia's 9th District · 2026
Joy Powers
Powers left Virginia Tech before graduating to help run her family's farm and tractor dealership when her grandfather became ill.
Biography
Joy Powers lives and works on her family's 350 acre cattle farm in Bedford, and she grew up participating in 4-H and FFA.1 She adopted her son through the foster care system.1 Her community work includes advocacy for foster families and children.1
Powers studied agricultural technology and animal systems at Virginia Tech, leaving before graduation when her grandfather became ill and the family needed help running its farm and tractor dealership.2 She has continued working in agriculture and running a small business.1
Her local responsibilities have included superintendent of the Bedford County Fair and membership on the county's Agricultural Economic Development Advisory Board.1 She also founded Restore the Harvest, an organization focused on agricultural education and resources.1 Her other community ties include the Ruritans, Virginia Simmental Association and Virginia Farm Bureau.1
Powers proposes more stable rural hospital funding, updated USDA housing loans and conversion of vacant buildings into workforce housing.2 She supports federal reproductive health protections and a temporary nationwide pause on new data centers while stronger safeguards are established.2 The Democrat is challenging Republican incumbent Morgan Griffith, seeking a greater federal focus on rural healthcare, housing and household costs.2