From Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, who had been running for governor but now has decided to do what a lot of people had been recommending he do and “drop down” to run for Lt. Governor. This move pretty much guarantees that Abigail Spanberger will be the Democrats’ 2025 Virginia gubernatorial nominee – probably against Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears, or possibly AG Jason Miyares (but I’m betting on Sears geting their nomination). As for LG, other Dems running or likely to run include Prince William County School Board Chair Babur Lateef, State Senators Ghazala Hashmi and Aaron Rouse…and presumably others (Del. Sam Rasoul? possibly one or more of the candidates who don’t win the VA07 or VA10 Dem nominations?). Stay tuned!
RICHMOND MAYOR LEVAR STONEY TO RUN FOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – Today, Democratic Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney released the following statement:
“After growing up in a working poor family, I got into public service to make sure families like mine could get a fair shot at success. That’s been my guiding principle as the Mayor of Richmond, and it’s why I got into the race for Governor. Right now, we have a Republican administration that puts a radical political agenda ahead of what’s right for Virginia families. That must change. After careful consideration with my family, I believe that the best way to ensure that all Virginia families do get the change they deserve is for our party to come together, avoid a costly and damaging primary and, for me to run instead for Lieutenant Governor.
The greatest thing to happen to me was the birth of my daughter, Sunday, this past March. I was able to spend the past few weeks with her and my wife Brandy. And during this time, I thought long and hard about the future I wanted for her and all Virginia families. This was not an easy decision – especially given that my campaign has received a lot of support from all corners of the Commonwealth and I am so appreciative of that support. And while there was a path to victory it was a narrow path and, after consideration, I firmly believe that running for LG is the right move for me and my family, the right move for the Democratic Party, the right move for the future of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
As LG, I believe I can be an effective advocate for Virginia families to ensure that everyone in our state does in fact get that fair shot at success. Given everything at stake in the next Governor’s race – from reproductive rights to education funding and tax fairness – I believe this is a time when Democrats must stand united and avoid an ugly primary for Governor.”
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