In a heated rematch for Virginia’s 41st District, Republican Delegate Chris Obenshain defended his record on crime, energy, and bipartisan leadership Monday night, while Democratic challenger Lily Franklin pressed for stricter gun laws.

Speaking before roughly 70 attendees at the Blacksburg Library, Obenshain — a Montgomery County assistant commonwealth’s attorney — highlighted his focus on prosperity, safety, and freedom for residents of the New River Valley. “I ran to be a voice for the people of the New River Valley in Richmond,” he said. “I’ll continue that work if reelected.”  

Obenshain, who narrowly defeated Franklin in 2023, leaned on his prosecutorial background when discussing gun violence, arguing Virginia already has strong laws and that the focus should be on criminals who misuse firearms. He noted his prior legislation targeting gun offenders that Democrats in the General Assembly declined to hear. “We have to address violent offenders directly, not law-abiding citizens,” he said.  

On energy policy, Obenshain sharply criticized Franklin’s support for the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA), calling it a “radical climate program” that forces dependence on wind and solar while driving up energy costs. He advocated for an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy, including natural gas, nuclear, and future technologies like fusion. “We can power data centers and keep rates affordable without sacrificing reliability,” he said.  (RELATED: Miyares Defends Independence Despite Jay Jones’ False Claims in Virginia Attorney General Debate)

The incumbent also cited his bipartisan record, pointing to legislation addressing antisemitism on college campuses and mental health co-response funding that passed under Democratic leadership. “I’ve worked across the aisle, that’s the prudent thing to do,” he said. “What’s more important is rediscovering our sense of civic engagement and community.”  

Franklin, a former legislative aide and teacher, reiterated her opposition to corporate campaign donations and expressed support for expanded gun restrictions and the elimination of Virginia’s car tax.  

Obenshain, meanwhile, reinforced his reputation as a pragmatic conservative committed to public safety, affordable energy, and bipartisan governance, qualities that have earned him support in one of the state’s most competitive races. (RELATED: Hundreds of Thousands of Virginians Cast their Vote Before Jay Jones Scandal)