 In 1850, Ohio County voters elected Russell to the Virginia House of Delegates.He was at first their only delegate (a part-time position) but after The Virginia Constitution of 1851 increased representation for western counties, he served alongside Chester D. Hubbard and John M. Oldham.However, in 1853, Ohio County voters instead elected John C. Campbell and Thomas M. Gally (who would in turn be ousted by James Paull, John Brady and T.L.