× Thanks for reading! Log in to continue. Enjoy more articles by logging in or creating a free account. No credit card required. Log in Sign up {{featured_button_text}}

Virginia Sen. Bill Stanley (R-Franklin County) has announced his bid for a third term in Richmond.

Stanley, who first first took office after a special election 2011 and who now is the Senate majority whip, made the announcement Wednesday via email. He cited his record in representing the 20th District as the foundation for his campaign.

"I have written and sponsored over 230 pieces of legislation that will help the citizens of Southside and Southwest Virginia, and 40 percent of the laws I proposed have become law," Stanley said in the release. "This includes workforce and economic development, protecting life, breaking the cycle of poverty, criminal justice reform, greater access to affordable and quality health care in rural and medically underserved areas, and the protection of companion animals.

“Southside and Southwest Virginia are the greatest places to live, work and raise a family. Every day that I have served our region at the state capitol I bring our values to Richmond, and fight for its citizens, their needs and their values. I have been a strong voice for us."

Stanley won his special election in the 19th Senate District, and one year after redistricting, in November 2011, he became the Republican nominee for the 20th Senatorial District. He has served two 4-year terms.