State Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, an Indian immigrant, has won the Democratic nomination for Virginia’s lieutenant governorship, according to The Associated Press. Hashmi, who serves as chairwoman of the Senate Education and Health Committee, is the only candidate endorsed by both abortion rights groups and labor organizations, highlighting her progressive stance. She will face GOP nominee John Reid in the November general election.
Hashmi, who represents Chester, emphasized her commitment to public education, abortion rights, and affordable housing in her campaign. Her victory marks a significant milestone for immigrant representation in Virginia politics. Meanwhile, former Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, known for his controversial tenure during the removal of Confederate monuments, conceded the race and has transitioned to a new role as mayor of the capital city.
Stoney, who previously oversaw the removal of Confederate sculptures from Monument Avenue, expressed his belief that racism and COVID-19 are two separate but lethal epidemics. In a recent interview with the Virginia Mercury, he stressed his willingness to work across the aisle as lieutenant governor, stating that disagreement does not have to lead to dysfunction.
The race also saw former Green Bay Packers safety Aaron Rouse and other candidates such as Prince William County School Board Chair Dr. Babur Lateef and union leader Alexander Bastani. Rouse, who has positioned himself as a counter to Republican leadership in Washington, emphasized his legislative efforts to protect federal workers from attrition.
With the Democratic nomination secured, the focus now shifts to the November general election, where Hashmi will face John Reid. The outcome could shape the direction of Virginia’s state government for years to come.