About

LtCol Michael Williamson (Ret.) is a father, combat veteran, and dedicated public servant running for Congress in Virginia’s 2nd District. 

The first in his extended family to graduate college, Mike grew up in a rural farming community shaped by hard work, union values, and a deep sense of civic duty. 

His family’s legacy of service dates back to the Civil War, when his great-great-great-grandfather fought with the Union Army, and continued through his grandfathers, both of whom served in the military as well.

Mike's grandfather, Airman Robert Riggins (1954)

After graduating from the University of Illinois, Mike put his business career on hold to answer the call to serve in the wake of 9/11. 

Commissioned as a Marine Corps Infantry Officer in 2004, Mike served our country during six tours overseas. He led troops in some of the most dangerous corners of Afghanistan and Iraq, fighting the Taliban and al Qaeda terrorists. 

Mike rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and served at the Pentagon, contributing to national security strategy. He worked with NATO, based in Hampton Roads, to protect Europe from Russian aggression.

Over a two-decade military career, Mike led Marines on combat deployments, humanitarian missions, and embassy evacuations across the globe -- from the mountains of the Korengal Valley to the Horn of Africa.

Mike earned the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Valor, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and three Meritorious Service Medals. 

Mike inspecting a platoon of Vietnamese Naval Infantry soldiers as the leader of a USMC delegation to Hanoi (2016).

Now living in Suffolk, VA with his wife, a pediatric urologist, and their two sons, Mike is stepping up once again -- this time to serve his country in Congress. 

Mike is running to restore accountability, defend constitutional checks and balances, and tackle the affordability crisis that’s left too many working families behind. 

A member of The American Legion, VFW, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Mike is a common-sense Democrat focused on protecting veterans’ care, expanding economic opportunity, preserving our public lands, and keeping America secure at home and abroad. 

Mike believes service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off -- and he’s running for Congress to make sure every family in Hampton Roads gets the honest, effective leadership they deserve.