VA-05 Democratic nominee?
Primary Election
Party selects its nominee.
Overview
Current rolePublic interest attorney
PartyDemocratic
Political ideologyProgressive Democrat
GenderMale
LocationVirginia
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BackgroundPublic interest attorney
EducationTouro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center (law degree)
Notable personal detailsAta-ul-Salaam (Salaam) Bhatti is a Democratic candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Virginia. He is a public interest lawyer and has worked on anti-poverty and nutrition policy, including efforts related to SNAP and school meals. He previously filed with the FEC as a candidate for Virginia’s 1st Congressional District in the 2026 cycle and has publicly discussed running in Virginia’s 5th District following redistricting developments.
SourcesShowHide
Positions
Economy & Taxes
Advocates taxing billionaires and increasing revenue to expand social programs such as paid family leave, universal pre-K, a living wage, stronger safety-net programs, and healthcare expansion. Supports measures to ensure wealthy individuals and corporations pay higher rates to fund those investments. Emphasizes using government resources to strengthen unions and social supports for working families.
Healthcare
Supports Medicare for All and universal health care; advocates expanding access to health care as part of a broader set of social programs. Prior work and campaign materials emphasize strengthening safety-net programs and making health care available to all residents.
Fundraising
Latest report: Cycle 20262026
LatestCycle 2026
Source: FEC
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We're monitoring and will update when new data impacts the race.
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