Director of Government Affairs
Robert Melvin - robert@vrlta.org

Robert brings extensive advocacy and public policy experience to the VRLTA. He started his professional career interning at the Republican Governors Association and on Capitol Hill. Robert has worked on numerous political campaigns, managed grassroots advocacy for the National Rifle Association - Institute for Legislative Action, directed the legislative office of a Virginia General Assembly member, and most recently managed a portfolio of public policy issues at the National Apartment Association. Robert graduated from Hampden-Sydney College with a degree in Political Science. While he was born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia, Robert and his wife moved south to Richmond for a better quality of life. They are expecting their first child, a girl, this fall.

More about Robert...

What is your ultimate Virginia weekend getaway?
Visiting one of Virginia’s wonderful communities on the Peninsula, Northern Neck, or down at the beach.

What is your favorite cuisine, and a favorite Virginia restaurant that serves it? 
Asian food, fried food, and creative new takes on food.
 
Which places are on your travel bucket list – Virginia and beyond? 
In Virginia I want to get back to the Northern Neck, the Eastern Shore, Williamsburg, and Virginia Beach. That being said, I also want to visit New Orleans and Cape Cod again, Charleston, and Savannah.
 
Mountains or beach? 
Prefer the beach / near open water.
 
Eat out or carry out? 
Eat out, as enjoying food in a restaurant is all part of the experience of consuming it.
 
Name a place in Virginia you’d like to visit. 
I would say that the reason I list the Virginia places above is they have a lot of history, and are near either the Chesapeake Bay or Atlantic Ocean.
 
​Perfect day in your (Virginia) hometown? 
Visiting one of the fantastic restaurants in the Richmond area. Also visiting any venue that has yacht rock playing live.