Biography

Delegate Israel O'Quinn was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates on November 8, 2011.
He represents the Forty-Fourth House District (Bristol City, Washington County, Russell County [part]).
As a strong advocate for Southwest Virginia, Israel works to ensure the region is well-represented in Richmond. His legislative committee assignments include Commerce and Energy, Privileges and Elections, Transportation, and Rules. Additionally, he serves as the Deputy House Republican Leader. Israel is a member of the legislative Coal and Energy Commission and is Past Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Israel is also Co-Chairman of InvestSWVA which is a business attraction and marketing campaign working to bring new industries to our region.
As a citizen legislator, Israel has worked in the private sector for nearly two decades. Prior to that, Israel served in various roles in government and campaigns. He spent two years in the office of the state Attorney General and worked on a number of political campaigns, including those for Governor, Attorney General, US Senate, House of Delegates and various local offices.
Israel is Past Chairman of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, which has Five Star accreditation from the US Chamber of Commerce. Israel is a recipient of the The Business Journal's Top 40 Under 40 award, as well as Emory & Henry College's Young Alumnus of the Year award. While at Emory & Henry College, Israel played on the varsity baseball team and graduated with degrees in Political Science and History. He now serves as a member of the college’s Board of Trustees. Israel is also a graduate of Patrick Henry High School in Glade Spring, Virginia.
Israel and his wife, Emily O'Quinn, reside in Washington County, Virginia. Emily works as a corporate external affairs professional and she is an avid supporter of community organizations at both the state and local levels. Over the years, her service on a number of boards has focused on various business and philanthropic initiatives including expanding educational opportunities for children and increasing access to the arts.
  • "I am honored to represent the 44th House District and have the opportunity to continue working on behalf of Southwest Virginia. We’re geographically a long way from Richmond, but I’ve focused on making sure we have a strong presence in the General Assembly to overcome those challenges. I promise to keep doing my best to represent our area well."
    Delegate O'Quinn

ENGAGED IN THE COMMUNITY

Delegate O'Quinn enjoys participating in community events and celebrating the milestones important to the citizens of the Forty-Fourth District.