This page covers politics in Norfolk, from city council votes and local elections to budget decisions and ballot measures. Reporting follows the city's government and the civic debates that shape its policies.
USS McFaul returned to Norfolk after an 11-month Middle East deployment, sailing around the Cape of Good Hope instead of the Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint.
Live Poll
Should the US keep spending more on its military overseas deployments?
The record-breaking aircraft carrier reached its new home port on July 9 after completing a transit around South America.
Live Poll
Should your city council have greater oversight power regarding local public housing authorities?
Candidates for Ward 3 and 4 city council seats are campaigning on platforms of equity, housing, and public safety.
Live Poll
In the upcoming election, would you prefer an incumbent or a former council member for your district?
Incumbent Corey Granquist and former council member Dale Coy are competing for a seat on the Norfolk City Council.
Live Poll
Should the U.S. offer financial incentives to encourage voluntary departure of illegal aliens?
Department of Homeland Security agents took an El Salvadoran citizen into custody during a targeted enforcement operation.
Regular subjects here include council votes, mayoral and council races, city budget and spending decisions, zoning and development policy, and public hearings on community issues. Coverage takes in the city and the neighborhoods that make up Norfolk, along with the regional bodies that share decisions with the city. Budget cycles and election calendars drive much of the reporting, since many local decisions follow fixed timetables. State rules on local authority set the limits within which Norfolk's officials can act, and that boundary often determines what reaches a council vote.
