John Eley Is Apparent South District Winner, Keeping Skills and Opportunity in Focus

John Eley emerged as the apparent winner in Newport News’ South District, positioning him to continue work that connects education with what comes after school. Job training and access to opportunity are concrete parts of that public-service record.

A route from interest to training

Eley is a former School Board member, local business owner and director of the What’s Next Foundation. He and former superintendent Ashby Kilgore founded the initiative to connect residents with job training and employment assistance.

In August 2026, Virginia Peninsula Community College reported that nearly 250 people attended a What’s Next information session at Brooks Crossing. Training, certificates and available financial assistance were part of the discussion, giving residents specific routes to explore.

Opportunity close to home

The work at Brooks Crossing gives Eley’s profile a direct connection to the Southeast Community. It also illustrates a larger priority: helping people turn an interest in a different job into a program, enrollment help and a realistic next step.

His agenda includes small-business growth, housing affordability and young people’s access to sports, arts and recreation. Alongside communication with residents, those subjects connect workforce opportunity with the conditions that help families remain and participate in their community.

Stay connected

Contact and participation information.

John R. Eley III received 11,298 votes. The lead over Devon P. Hamilton was 7,835 votes. Figures are from Virginia ELECT’s unofficial November 4, 2026, 1:34 p.m. EST export; canvassing and certification remained pending.

Southeast Community · Meet the council leaders across seven Hampton Roads cities.