Benjamin Lee Cline was born on February 29, 1972, in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He has been a significant figure in Virginia politics, serving as the representative for the state’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2019. His political career is characterized by a strong commitment to conservative principles and active participation in both state and federal legislatures.
2024 Election Victory
In the 2024 general election held on November 5, Ben Cline secured re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives for Virginia’s 6th Congressional District. He garnered 63.1% of the vote, defeating Democratic challenger Ken Mitchell, who received 34.8%, and Independent candidate Robert Wells Jr., who obtained 2.0%
. This decisive victory underscored Cline’s strong support within the district, which encompasses the Shenandoah Valley along Interstate 81, including the cities of Roanoke and Salem.
Career Path to Congress
Cline’s political career began as an aide to U.S. Representative Bob Goodlatte, providing him with valuable experience in legislative processes. He later served as an assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for Rockingham County and Harrisonburg, Virginia, where he gained insight into the legal and judicial systems. In 2002, Cline was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 24th District. During his tenure, he served on several key committees, including Commerce and Labor, Courts of Justice, and Finance, and chaired the Militia, Police, and Public Safety Committee
. His legislative focus encompassed education, government transparency, and criminal justice reform. In 2018, following Goodlatte’s retirement, Cline was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he has continued to advocate for conservative policies.
Sponsored Legislation
Throughout his tenure in Congress, Cline has sponsored various bills reflecting his policy priorities. Notably, he introduced legislation aimed at enhancing government transparency and accountability. For instance, during his time in the Virginia House of Delegates, he passed HB2285, which created a searchable database of Virginia’s agency expenditures, promoting fiscal transparency
. In the U.S. House, Cline has continued to focus on issues such as fiscal responsibility, criminal justice reform, and veterans’ affairs, though specific sponsored bills in these areas would require further detail.
Stances on Major Social Issues
Cline is known for his conservative positions on various social issues. He is staunchly anti-abortion and has introduced legislation requiring that information regarding the option of providing anesthesia to the fetus be given to women seeking abortions after 20 weeks, mandating doctors to comply if requested by the mother
. On civil liberties, Cline has expressed concerns over federal overreach. In 2013, he patroned HB2229 to address issues related to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2012, aiming to protect citizens from potential unlawful detention by requiring federal authorities to notify local law enforcement within 24 hours of such actions
.
Stances on Major Economic Issues
Economically, Cline advocates for limited government intervention and fiscal conservatism. He has supported legislation to reduce taxes and government spending. In the Virginia House of Delegates, he patroned HB1125, creating a school sales tax holiday to alleviate the financial burden on families
At the federal level, Cline has voted against significant spending bills he perceives as contributing to the national debt. For example, he was among the 71 Republicans who voted against the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, reflecting his commitment to fiscal restraint
Demographics of the 6th Congressional District
Virginia’s 6th Congressional District is located in western Virginia, encompassing the Shenandoah Valley along Interstate 81, and includes the cities of Roanoke and Salem. The district has a predominantly white population, with a significant rural component. The demographic composition has contributed to its strong Republican leanings, as evidenced by Cline’s successive electoral victories. Detailed and up-to-date demographic statistics would require consultation of the latest U.S. Census data or local demographic resources.
Controversial Statements
Cline has occasionally attracted controversy for his positions and statements. Notably, in December 2020, he was one of 126 Republican members of the House of Representatives to sign an amicus brief supporting Texas v. Pennsylvania, a lawsuit contesting the results of the 2020 presidential election
Additionally, on January 6, 2021, Cline voted against certifying the election of President-elect Joe Biden, a move that drew criticism from those who viewed it as undermining the democratic process
These actions have been points of contention among his constituents and political observers.
In summary, Ben Cline’s political career reflects a consistent adherence to conservative principles, with active involvement in legislation at both state and federal levels. His positions on social and economic issues align with his party’s platform, and he continues to represent a district that supports his legislative agenda.