RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia’s two U.S. senators are recommending a former state legislator and a Salem attorney for a federal judgeship in Roanoke.

Ward L. Armstrong of Henry County served 20 years in the House of Delegates, including five as Democratic leader. Elizabeth K. Dillon is an attorney in private practice who represents local governments, constitutional officers and school boards in court and before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Democratic Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine made the recommendations in a letter Monday to President Barack Obama. They said the Virginia State Bar screened both candidates and rated them highly qualified.

U.S. District Judge Samuel G. Wilson has announced he is retiring on Aug. 1.

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