Shelly Arnoldi

Shelly Arnoldi was born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. She served in the U.S. Navy from 1991 to 2001. She graduated from Sheboygan North High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from Marquette University in 1991 and a graduate degree from Old Dominion University in 1998. Her career experience includes working as an engineer, a federal civilian overseas, and a naval officer. Arnoldi has been affiliated with the Waynewood Recreation Association, Fort Hunt Youth Athletic Association, the Virginia Medical Freedom Alliance, Weston A. Price Foundation, Children’s Health Defense, the Informed Consent Action Network, and The American Legion Post 24.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a U.S. Navy veteran, licensed Professional Engineer, and accomplished leader with more than 27 years of experience managing major facilities and construction projects for the military, Department of Defense schools, and cultural institutions such as the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art.

I was born and raised in Wisconsin and earned my engineering degree at Marquette University on a ROTC scholarship before completing a master’s in environmental engineering at Old Dominion University.

I am also a lifelong runner and triathlete, as well as a proud wife, mom of two college-aged daughters, and stepmom to two sons—one training at Newport News Shipyard and the other pursuing a career as a firefighter.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Strong Schools, Strong Families

I will put parents back at the center of their children’s education, defend parental rights, and ensure our schools return to teaching the fundamentals while respecting family values. I will always stand firm in protecting our constitutional freedoms.Lower Taxes, More Opportunity

I will work to cut taxes and red tape that hurt small businesses, so our local economy can thrive. I will fight to reduce energy costs for families by ending wasteful, taxpayer-funded subsidies for wind and solar projects. Data centers must be responsible for providing their own energy solutions—without jeopardizing power availability and affordability for our tax-paying communities.Secure Borders, Fair Elections

I will demand enforcement of federal immigration laws and stop taxpayer-funded charities from providing food, housing, and education for illegal immigrants. Our tax dollars should support citizens and legal residents first.

I will also pursue policies that protect the integrity and transparency of our elections to include elimination of early voting and drop boxes and requirement of a photo ID to vote.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Putting Families and Communities First

I am committed to policies that protect families, strengthen communities, and restore trust in government. From empowering parents in education, to lowering taxes and ensuring reliable, affordable energy, to enforcing immigration laws and safeguarding election integrity—my focus is on putting citizens and communities first, not special interests or government overreach.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I respect Thomas Massie for his fiscal responsibility and independence. He makes decisions based on principle, not the influence of PACs or special interest donors—a true example of integrity in government.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, courage, and commitment are the most important qualities an elected official can bring to public service. Integrity ensures that leaders act with honesty, transparency, and accountability—always putting the needs of their constituents above personal or political gain. Courage is essential to stand firm in the face of pressure, to make difficult decisions, and to defend what is right, even when it is not popular. And commitment reflects the dedication to serve faithfully, to follow through on promises, and to put in the hard work required to deliver results for the community.

Without these three traits, leadership falls short. With them, citizens can trust that their elected official is working tirelessly on their behalf, guided by principle rather than politics.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe there are 5 key responsibilities for this position:

1. Lawmaking and Legislative Duties

Propose and sponsor bills: Introduce new legislation addressing issues in the state.

Debate and vote on legislation: Participate in floor debates, committee hearings, and vote on bills, resolutions, and amendments.

Review and analyze policy proposals: Study the impact, costs, and benefits of proposed laws to make informed decisions.

2. Representing Constituents

Advocate for local interests: Ensure the needs and priorities of their district are represented in state government.

Respond to constituent concerns: Assist citizens with state-related issues, such as navigating government agencies or addressing community problems.

Communicate with the public: Hold town halls, newsletters, or social media updates to keep constituents informed.

3. Oversight and Accountability

Monitor state agencies and programs: Ensure public resources are used efficiently and policies are implemented effectively.

Participate in committees: Review budgets, investigate issues, and provide oversight in specialized policy areas.

Ensure transparency: Promote open government and accountability in decision-making.

4. Budget and Fiscal Responsibility

Review and approve state budgets: Evaluate spending proposals and advocate for funding that benefits the district and state.

Ensure responsible taxation and spending: Balance fiscal priorities while funding essential public services.

5. Community Leadership

Build partnerships: Work with local governments, businesses, nonprofits, and schools to address local needs.

Promote civic engagement: Encourage citizens to participate in the democratic process and stay informed about state issues.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy I want to leave is one of meaningful impact—creating a world where my daughters, and future generations, have greater opportunities, security, and hope for a better future.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The death of Elvis Presley. My family enjoyed listening to albums and my parents were particularly fond of him. I was 7 years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started my first job at 15, waiting tables in Sheboygan. Through high school and all four years of college, I balanced full-time challenging coursework in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Navy ROTC commitments, and restaurant work—all without summer school. Managing all of that taught me strong time management before I was commissioned as a Naval officer at 21.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Bible is my favorite book because of its rich history and the countless ways it can be interpreted. Beyond its teachings, I value how it has the power to bring people from all around the world together, fostering shared values and a sense of community.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I respect Katniss Everdeen because she embodies courage, resilience, and independence. She faces incredible challenges with strength and determination, staying true to her principles even when it’s dangerous or unpopular. Her physical and mental toughness, combined with her willingness to stand up for others, makes her a character I deeply admire.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I’ve often struggled with following directions that don’t make sense to me and questioning long-standing ways of doing things. This has sometimes created tension with others, but it’s also been a driving force in shaping how I approach problems and seek better solutions.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

It's a partnership that should use checks and balances to ensure both are work for the best interest of all Virginia voters and legal residents.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Deporting the illegal immigrants residing in Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads and Richmond. Reversing the legislation allowing illegal immigrants to receive free tax funded services. Encouraging people to start small businesses to bring manufacturing and services back into the state. Fix legislation to encourage companies to use materials, equipment and labor here in Virginia. Minimize and control data center expansion. Monitor and control AI.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No. Political parties are heavily influenced by Political Action Committees that generally have an agenda that may or may not benefit constituents. It's more important for state legislators to work for the constituents they represent.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes, no legislator can be effective if they can't work with the entire legislative body. Collaboration and respect are required.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I haven't followed politics much prior to 2020, but I appreciate Amanda Chase and Tara Durant.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

No. But I would like to help others get elected who are not owned by financed political action committees.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

My daughters have several friends with different mental health issues. One was put on anti-depressants when she was ten and it ruined her confidence and future. She ended up spending two years in a mental hospital while in high school and now she is a habitual street drug user. My goal is to end the prescription of SSRIs for children.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

No.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

A bill to fix election laws.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The Virginia Police Benevolent Associatin

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

Bad.

Candidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable?

Before 2020, I didn’t vote outside of Presidential elections, and I think many of my neighbors felt the same way. But everything changed during COVID. I watched our community and friendships shift as I disagreed with mask mandates, social distancing, and experimental vaccines. It was especially hard watching my daughters play volleyball and softball while wearing masks—sometimes more than one—and feeling powerless as their world changed around them. I’m proud that I stood by my convictions, but it’s been painful to see how much influence Fairfax County Public Schools had on them even before 2020. Since then, I’ve been working tirelessly to reconnect with my kids and ensure they grow up with my guidance and values.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

One of my proudest accomplishments is earning my degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, my master’s, and my Professional Engineer license before having children. Afterward, I worked full-time while raising my kids as their sole financial provider, and I’ve maintained a strong fitness routine, running six miles several times a week and exercising daily. Balancing career, family, and personal health taught me discipline, perseverance, and time management that guide me every day.

What legislation would you enact related to election administration in your state?

In person one day voting with photo ID. Only exception is for military members stationed overseas.