Four candidates — Nila Devanath, Bill Fleming, Elaine Luria, and Patrick Mosolf — are running in the Democratic primary for Virginia's 2nd Congressional District on August 4, 2026. Devanath and Luria lead in fundraising and media attention.

The winner of the Democratic primary will face incumbent Jennifer Kiggans (R) in the general election. Luria represented the district from 2019 to 2023. If she wins the primary, it will set up a rematch with Kiggans, who defeated Luria 52%-48% in 2022. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is supporting Luria as one of 24 Democratic candidates in its Red to Blue program nationwide.

Devanath and Mosolf joined an interstate coalition of Democratic U.S. House candidates in opposing the DCCC's involvement in their primaries. A statement released on behalf of the 18 members of the coalition said, "Constituents deserve the opportunity to compare ideas, hear open debate, and decide for themselves who will represent them rather than being told who to vote for."

Devanath is a physician and attorney and is currently the regional associate medical director for Sentara Community Care. She earned her bachelor's degree in neuroscience and psychology from the University of Pittsburgh, her law degree from Harvard Law School, and her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Before practicing medicine, she worked as an attorney for victims of domestic violence at a legal aid clinic. On her campaign website, Devanath says she is running "to make healthcare more affordable, bring down everyday costs, and deliver practical leadership rooted in compassion and results."

Luria earned her bachelor's degree in physics from the U.S. Naval Academy and served as a Navy commander for 20 years before retiring. She was first elected to the House in 2018 after defeating Republican incumbent Scott Taylor 51%-49%. She was reelected in 2020, again defeating Taylor in the general election, and lost to Kiggans in 2022. Luria said in a statement, "I cannot sit back and watch as Republicans in Congress create chaos while failing to address the rising cost of living and the issues that matter to Coastal Virginians. Virginians are hungry for change, and I look forward to getting back to work for Hampton Roads."