Republican Melanie Lucero challenges incumbent congressman in Virginia’s Fifth District primary

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - Virginians will return to the polls in two weeks to vote in primaries for November’s midterm elections, and the Fifth District race is not without contest.

Republican Congressman John McGuire faces a primary challenge from Melanie Lucero, who is running on a promise of change for the Fifth District.

“We need to send representatives who are going to help the 5th district and who are going to fight for us,” Lucero said.

Republican candidate Melanie Lucero and incumbent Representative John McGuire have similarities on paper. The two central Virginia Republicans are both veterans promising to lower federal spending and put America first. Neither are shy of their approval of the job President Donald Trump is doing in Washington.

When asked if she would describe herself as a so-called MAGA Republican, Lucero said yes.

“I do believe in it because to me that is putting the American people first,” Lucero said.

Lucero said that’s where the similarities end, as she promises to bring change if elected.

“Career politicians are a joke. This guy has been a politician for over 8 years and in his entire time, he’s only passed one bill. Everything that we get from him is all smoke and mirrors,” Lucero said.

Lucero said she would work in Congress to lower excessive federal spending and reform health care.

“The government exists to represent the American people. Fraud, waste and abuse is a huge concern right now,” Lucero said.

Early in-person voting for primaries starts June 19. Election day is August 4.

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