Only On 8: Richmond’s top election official sits down for one-on-one interview

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond’s Office of Elections is entering a new chapter with the appointment of David Levine as the city’s new general registrar.

After a tumultuous period marked by scandal and leadership change, Levine said he’s committed to restoring public trust and ensuring transparency.

Levine is no stranger to Richmond. He served as deputy registrar from 2012 to 2014 under former general registrar Kurt Showalter. Levine also brings years of election experience from Idaho, Maryland and Washington D.C. to the role. Now returning as the city’s top election official, he’s focused on reform and accountability.

“My pledge is that we are going to do everything we can to serve the voters of Richmond to the very best of our ability,” Levine said in an exclusive interview.

His appointment follows the resignation of former registrar Keith Balmer, who left the office last year after an investigation found violations of city policies related to nepotism, misconduct and the misuse of nearly $500,000 in city funds.

“No election is perfect, and certainly we're no exception,” Levine said. “But one of the things I hope becomes a hallmark for us is that when we make mistakes, we own up to them.”

Levine emphasized a back-to-basics approach to election oversight.

“We're going to make sure that we're following the rules—federal, state, local, and city laws,” he said.

He also pointed to existing strengths within the department, praising the staff’s dedication to accuracy and responsiveness.

“I think there remain a lot of folks who work in this office who are committed to doing a good job,” Levine said. “We do a pretty good job here of validating and double-checking election results. We have an experienced group of folks that are attentive and trying to respond to a variety of public inquiries.”

In working to rebuild public confidence, Levine says transparency will be key.

“My hope is that we are a place that people feel is a trusted source of information about the elections process,” Levine said. You embrace transparency and demonstrate to folks that you're going to do what it takes to ensure they have a smooth voting experience—one that meets the expectations of Richmond voters.”

He plans to lean on both the expertise of current staff and feedback from constituents to guide the office forward.