The 26th Judicial Circuit has a new member sitting on its caucus.

Del. R. Steven Landes announced that Clifford L. “Clay” Athey, Jr. was selected unanimously by the caucus to fill the vacant seat.

The caucus has eight delegates and three senators. They represent the cities of Harrisonburg and Winchester, as well as Rockingham, Page, Shenandoah, Warren, Frederick and Clarke counties.

Landes says Clay's experience with the judicial system made him the most popular candidate.

“Although any of the candidates may well have ably filled this vacancy or another which may arise in the future, our intimate knowledge of Clay Athey’s judicial philosophy as a strict constructionist of our Constitution led to him receiving the overwhelming support of the Caucus to fill this vacancy,” said Landes.

“In addition, Clay’s intellect, demeanor, and vast legal experience and legislative experience as House Policy Chairman, Vice Chairman of the Courts of Justice Committee and Chairman of its Civil Law Subcommittee placed him head and shoulders above any of the other candidates.”