Beth Macy: Appalachia Memoir Author Running for Congress 2026

Beth Macy, the Appalachia memoir author known for Dopesick, is running for Congress in Virginia's sixth congressional district. The longtime reporter with the Roanoke Times has a plan to flip a seat that has been in Republican hands for over 33 years. Drawing on her experience as a journalist, Macy is canvassing the mountainous west of Virginia, knocking on doors, visiting food pantries, and meeting with veterans. But she's doing it with a twist: she carries her reporter's notebook and jots down the stories she's told, then shares them on social media. "It's been really effective because it shows the real issues that people care about," she says.

From Pulitzer to Politics: Beth Macy's Journey

Beth Macy is no stranger to the spotlight. Her book Dopesick, a powerful account of the opioid crisis that swept through Appalachia two decades ago, became a critically acclaimed TV series. Now, she's turning her attention to politics, challenging Republican congressman Ben Cline, who was elected by nearly 30 points in 2024. Macy's campaign is built on the same principles that guided her journalism: listening to people and telling their stories. "I'm not JD Vance," she says, distancing herself from the Hillbilly Elegy author and Ohio senator. "I'm Beth, and I'm running for Congress."

Why Appalachia Memoir Author Resonates with Voters

Macy's approach is resonating with voters in the district. At a recent fundraiser, two couples whose land had been in the family for 300 years approached her to tell her about a datacenter proposed on land next door. Macy recorded their stories and posted them online. "It's been really effective because it shows the real issues that people care about and people who are independent or moderate Republican who are maybe changing their mind and starting to cross over," she says. "If it's enough, I don't know."

The Uphill Battle: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite her name recognition, Macy faces an uphill battle. Virginia's sixth district is heavily Republican, and Cline has agreed to only three debates, though he appeared to limit them to something less. Macy has challenged him to three debates ahead of November's vote. "I'm not a politician," she says. "I'm a reporter. I tell stories. And I think that's what people want right now."

Key Takeaways from Beth Macy's Congressional Run

• Unconventional campaign: Macy uses her reporter's notebook to capture and share voter stories on social media.
• District history: Virginia's 6th district has been Republican-held for over 33 years.
• Name recognition: Macy's bestselling book Dopesick and TV adaptation give her a platform.
• Uphill battle: Cline won by nearly 30 points in 2024, but Macy hopes to sway moderate Republicans.

Comparing Beth Macy and Ben Cline

FAQ

Who is Beth Macy?

Beth Macy is an American journalist and author, best known for her book Dopesick, which explores the opioid crisis in Appalachia. She is currently running for Congress in Virginia's 6th district.

What is Beth Macy's connection to Appalachia?

Macy has spent decades reporting on Appalachia, particularly the opioid crisis. Her memoir and investigative work have deep roots in the region.

Is Beth Macy related to JD Vance?

No, Beth Macy is not related to JD Vance. She has explicitly stated, "I'm not JD Vance," to distinguish her Appalachian roots and political approach from his.

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