GOP Candidate Derrick Anderson Criticized for Using Friend’s Family in Campaign Photos

Anderson, who is childless and engaged, posed with a friend's wife and children to appear as a family man in his congressional bid.

Derrick Anderson, running for Virginia's 7th congressional district, was found using a friend's wife and children in campaign images and videos.
The images, resembling family holiday cards, were intended to soften his image amid concerns about his anti-abortion stance.
Anderson’s campaign defended the photos, stating they showed him with female supporters and their kids, similar to other candidates' campaign materials.
The tactic drew widespread mockery on social media and criticism from both left-leaning media and some conservative figures.
Anderson is competing against retired U.S. Army colonel Eugene Vindman in a closely contested race for the Northern Virginia seat.