Justin Pence holds a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and Economics from Virginia Tech and has been actively involved in agricultural activities since high school. He currently manages a beef cattle farm and serves on multiple agricultural boards, including the Shenandoah County Farm Bureau and the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. Pence also holds a leadership position in economic development and has experience as a Chief Operating Officer in the private sector. He has been recognized for his community contributions, receiving the “Citizen of the Year” award from the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce.

Justin Pence champions a unique blend of agricultural advocacy and regulatory minimalism, advocating for community control over land while opposing stifling regulations. His policy stances reveal an unexpected tension between protecting Virginia’s agricultural heritage and cutting down on regulatory burdens. Pence’s rhetorical style emphasizes the importance of safe schools and parental influence, while his opposition to boys participating in girls' sports adds another layer of ideological complexity. His energy policy, opposing renewables in favor of reliability and affordability, further highlights his calculated approach to policymaking.