James Osyf

I'm running for Congress because I believe in this country and the promise it holds for families like mine. Every advantage and opportunity that I’ve benefited from is a direct result of service to country. The example set by my family of immigrants inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution – and the principles it represents – repeatedly, and with pride. But what we confront today is a hostile political environment. One where government has been twisted to act as a weapon against our most vulnerable, dissent is suppressed, and executive overreach has replaced the self-restraint necessary to preserve our republic.

A first-generation Ukrainian American, James Osyf was raised by a family who sought refuge from the oppression of post-war Europe to ultimately realize the American Dream. Inspired by their hardship and sacrifice, including military service spanning from WWII through Vietnam, James graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, and later continued his education at the Harvard Kennedy School and Georgetown Law. His Navy career began in Virginia Beach, where he deployed twice to the Persian Gulf aboard the fast-attack submarine USS Norfolk. Following additional tours of duty—from Submarine Rescue Command to the Pentagon— James returned to Virginia Beach, where he continues to serve today, supporting U.S. Second Fleet operations as a Commander in the Navy Reserve.