Rep. Denver Riggleman: Reflecting on His Two Years in D.C.

“And I’ll have to say this: This was the worst job I ever had, but it was one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

On October 27th, Merion West editor Erich Prince was joined by Rep. Denver Riggleman, who represents Virginia’s 5th Congressional District as a Republican. Rep. Riggleman, a freshman member of Congress who has gained attention for his focus on issues affecting rural voters, was narrowly defeated in a drive-thru party convention in June of this year by Bob Good. (Rep. Riggleman previously joined Merion West for discussions in January of 2019 and October of 2019.) In this candid conversation, Mr. Prince and Rep. Riggleman discuss the Congressman’s upcoming departure from office, his reflections on the state of the Republican Party (in Virginia and across the United States), his recent book release, and his plans for the future.

Congressman, good afternoon. How are you?

Hey, how are you today?

Good. Nice to hear from you again—I know it’s been a little while since we were discussing the rural broadband, so it’s nice to connect again.

Oh my gosh, it sure is, buddy. It sure is.

So, just to get started—a lot has taken place since we last spoke.

It sure has. It sure has.

So where is your head at? How are you feeling?

Incredibly happy—I mean, incredibly blessed. I’m actually talking to you from my 50 acres at my distillery right now. We’ve been able to get some legislation through here in the last few months through committees that I never thought would happen, and the very things I promised I would do are happening. So, a little bit bittersweet. Right as I’m leaving Congress, I’m getting bills passed I didn’t think people think could happen based on the fact that it’s so tribal in there now. But the flip side of that is—business is great, my family is happier. And I’ll have to say this: This was the worst job I ever had, but it was one of the best things I’ve ever done.