Virgil Gene Thornton Sr. is a Democratic member of the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 86th District, which includes parts of York County, Hampton, and Poquoson. Born in 1961 in Newport News, Virginia, he is an African American Christian, married to Dr. Michelle Boon-Thornton, with three children: Courtney, Marrisa, and Virgil Jr. A lifelong Virginian, he is a retired executive coach, former Naval submarine technician, transformational leader, entrepreneur, and certified foster parent. Elected in 2025 by defeating incumbent Republican A.C. Cordoza with a 7.94% margin, he took office on January 14, 2026. He advocates for strengthening public schools, expanding access to quality health care, and supporting working families.

Education and Political Experience

Specific educational background is not detailed in available records. His professional experience includes over 35 years of community dedication as a submarine technician, executive coach, and advocate. Politically, this is his first term in the Virginia House of Delegates , where he serves as a Democrat focused on district impact.