About Bill

Born into a life of travel as the son of a naval aviator, Bill Stanley’s family crisscrossed the United States wherever duty called. Returning home to Virginia in 1975, the Stanley Family lived in Virginia Beach, Northern Virginia, and purchased a home in Franklin County in 1983.

Bill’s education was shaped by prestigious institutions like Hampden Sydney College and the District of Columbia School of Law. He then embarked on his legal career first in Northern Virginia, joining forces with former Virginia Attorney General Candidate Gil Davis. One of his early landmark cases, Paula Jones vs. Bill Clinton, resulted in a historic 9-0 Supreme Court decision, establishing that even a sitting president could be held accountable for private actions against a private citizen.

Following his father’s passing, Bill became a pivotal force in his mother’s remarkable journey. Inspired by his support, she fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming an attorney, passing the bar in 1998 at the age of 58. Together, they built a legacy in Franklin County, establishing the law firm Stanley Law Group with offices at Smith Mountain Lake and Richmond. This enduring partnership, now 30 years strong, is a testament to their dedication and family bond.

Bill’s political compass was guided by the unwavering conservative values instilled by his father, a staunch Ronald Reagan Republican. Hard work, personal responsibility, fiscal prudence, and unwavering principles were the cornerstones of their family’s philosophy.

In 2010, when Robert Hurt ascended to Congress, Bill received widespread encouragement from community and political leaders to fill the remaining year of Hurt’s term in the 19th Senate Seat. After careful consideration and seeking guidance from loved ones, Bill made the decision to run for the Republican nomination. His January 2011 victory marked the beginning of his journey as a champion for Southside, and Southwest Virginia at the state’s Capitol in Richmond.

In 2012, Bill moved into the 20^th Senate District, becoming the party nominee, and successfully defeating a long serving Democrat Incumbent by a mere 644 votes, getting the majority for the Republican Party in the state Senate since 2013.

Following redistricting in 2021, Bill became the Republican nominee for the 7th Senatorial District in 2023. He secured a four-year term in November of that year, solidifying his position as a powerful voice for Southside and Southwest Virginia.

Senator Stanley’s dedication to his constituents is evident in his unwavering focus on economic development initiatives. He champions legislation aimed at creating jobs, reducing unemployment, and fostering a brighter future for Southside families for generations to come. His energy, enthusiasm, grassroots approach, and proven track record of effective leadership are making a tangible difference in the lives of those he serves.