IAPAC is proud to endorse Delegate Atoosa Reaser for re-election to the Virginia House of Delegates, District 27!
Washington, D.C. — Delegate Atoosa Reaser made history as the first Iranian American elected to the Virginia General Assembly. Her family fled Iran during the 1979 revolution in pursuit of freedom and equal opportunity—a vision that has guided her career in public service ever since.
A graduate of George Mason University Law School, Reaser has called Loudoun County home for more than two decades. Before serving in the House of Delegates, she was elected to the Loudoun County School Board, where she was twice chosen by her peers as Vice Chair. She now represents Eastern Loudoun in the General Assembly, where she has quickly built a reputation as one of the most effective legislators.
In her first term, Reaser passed 75% of her bills into law, many with bipartisan support. Her accomplishments include expanding childcare access, enacting bipartisan gun violence prevention laws, strengthening healthcare consumer protections, and advancing legislation to improve schools and expand affordable housing.
She has also been a vocal advocate for the Iranian American community, hosting an annual Nowruz celebration at the State Capitol and introducing resolutions to formally recognize Iranian American contributions in Virginia.
PAAIA had the opportunity to speak with Delegate Reaser about her campaign. Read the interview below:
What inspired you to run for re-election?
“The example of my parents’ rebuilding a life after the revolution in Iran put me on the
path towards ensuring others had a fair shot at the American promise of working hard to
gain success through economic opportunity, via my public service. During my time in the
General Assembly, I have been one of the most effective members, with the highest
Freshman year bill passage rate, and 75% of my bills were signed into law – with
bipartisan support – during my first term. There is still so much work to do to ensure
economic opportunity, excellent public education, and community safety, so we can
thrive”
What differentiates you from your opponents?
“I have spent the past six years in elected office, where I have put together a record of
effectiveness, responsiveness, and willingness to work across the aisle to achieve needed
policy solutions. Over the past two years, I have consistently had superior bill passage
rates across both chambers of the General Assembly. I have earned prestigious
appointments to commissions and committees, allowing me to influence other lawmakers
at the state and federal levels. And, I have been recognized by outside organizations for
these achievements.
I am prepared to continue work so every Virginian has access to economic opportunity, a
world-class education, and a safe community. My leadership and advocacy have proven
to be effective time and time again, both within our community and in the committee
room”
What are the most critical issues facing your district today?
“I have spent the past six years in elected office, where I have put together a record of
effectiveness, responsiveness, and willingness to work across the aisle to achieve needed
policy solutions. Over the past two years, I have consistently had superior bill passage
rates across both chambers of the General Assembly. I have earned prestigious
appointments to commissions and committees, allowing me to influence other lawmakers
at the state and federal levels. And, I have been recognized by outside organizations for
these achievements.
I am prepared to continue work so every Virginian has access to economic opportunity, a
world-class education, and a safe community. My leadership and advocacy have proven
to be effective time and time again, both within our community and in the committee
room.”
What role can the Iranian American community play in your campaign?
“The Iranian American community is a cornerstone of my campaign and has profoundly
influenced my approach to policy and public service. The experiences, individuals, and
cultural traditions I have encountered within this community continue to shape my values
and inform my work. Additionally, the example set by my parents—who courageously
fled the Iranian Revolution in pursuit of freedom and opportunity—has been a constant
source of guidance and inspiration throughout my life and career.”
IAPAC is the registered bipartisan connected political action committee of the Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA). IAPAC supports and encourages Iranian Americans to actively participate in the U.S. democratic process and run for public office. Learn more at iranianamericanpac.org.
