
Illustration: Lindsey Bailey/Axios
No one's talking openly yet about who will run to fill the late Rep. Don McEachin's seat representing Richmond in Congress.
Yes, but: That's not stopping wild speculation behind the scenes.
What we're hearing: We talked to every Richmond politician who would answer the phone Wednesday, and so far, Del. Lamont Bagby, a Democrat from Henrico, appears to have emerged as one of the most likely contenders for the seat.
- Bagby is the chairman of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and a mentee of McEachin.
- He declined to say Wednesday whether he's considering a run, but told WRIC earlier this week that "there is no secret I've always wanted to follow in my big brother's footsteps."
It remains unclear whether Bagby would face a competitor in a Democratic nominating contest.
- So far, other potential candidates include Richmond state Sen. Jennifer McClellan and former Petersburg Del. Lashrecse Aird.
- There's also the possibility that McEachin's widow, Richmond Commonwealth's Attorney Colette McEachin, could herself be interested in running for her husband’s seat.
What they’re saying: A spokesperson for McClellan referred Axios to her statements earlier this week, when she said it was too soon to discuss.
- Likewise, Aird said in a text message that she’ll “address any potential candidacy in due course.”
- Colette McEachin didn’t respond to messages seeking comment.
We can cross off a few potential candidates: Richmond state Sen. Joe Morrissey says he's happy in his current seat.
- And Richmond Del. Jeff Bourne told Axios that he's humbled by suggestions he might run but "will not be a candidate."
Of note: The district is heavily Democratic, meaning whoever wins the party's nomination is most likely heading to Congress next year.
What's next: It's up to Gov. Youngkin to call a special election, and so far he hasn't given any clues about the likely timing.
Meanwhile, a memorial has been scheduled for McEachin next Wednesday at St. Paul's Baptist Church at 11am.

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