Congressional Candidates Share Views With Political Science Students

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(From left to right) Independent Congressional Candidate Alaha Ahrar, Political Science and International Affairs Chair Rosalyn Cooperman, Professor of Political Science Jared McDonald and Libertarian Congressional Candidate Taner Lopez

Candidates for Virginia’s 7th Congressional District spoke earlier this month to political science students.

Independent candidate Alaha Ahrar and Libertarian candidate Taner Lopez visited Professor of Political Science Jared McDonald’s American Government class in Monroe Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 14, to discuss their respective campaigns.

Originally from Afghanistan, Ahrar is a U.S. citizen, and a social justice and human rights expert, who lives in Dumfries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and international affairs, and human rights, from UMW and a master’s degree in social justice and human rights from George Mason University.

Taner Lopez, who lives in Locust Grove, is a cultural advisor for U.S. government agencies. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish language and literature, a master’s degree in religions and cultures, and a doctoral degree in theology from the University of Murcia in Spain.

Libertarian Candidate Taner Lopez addresses Professor of Political Science Professor Jared McDonald’s American Government class on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026.

“As always, our students did an excellent job asking relevant and thoughtful questions of the candidates on topics that spanned domestic and foreign policy matters,” said Professor of Political Science Rosalyn Cooperman, who moderated the exchange. “Both candidates really seemed to enjoy the opportunity to speak with our students.”

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