Miyares Announces Reelection, Focuses on Crime and Integrity

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares has announced his bid for reelection, quelling speculation of a potential gubernatorial run. Miyares, a Republican elected in 2021, is known for his strong conservative stance, including the creation of an election integrity unit and legal efforts to remove noncitizens from voter rolls. He aims to continue focusing on reducing crime, combating fentanyl overdoses, and addressing social media addiction. His announcement clears the path for Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears to pursue the Republican gubernatorial nomination in 2025. Democratic challengers Jay Jones and Shannon Taylor have criticized Miyares, with Jones accusing him of partisan extremism. Miyares' decision not to run for governor potentially sets the stage for Virginia to elect its first woman governor, with Earle-Sears and Rep. Abigail Spanberger as notable contenders.