Virginia
- Hung Cao Takes Over as Acting Secretary of the Navy
Washington, D.C. – April 22, 2026 – In a surprise announcement that marks the first departure of a military service secretary in President Donald Trump’s second term, the Pentagon confirmed Wednesday that Navy Secretary John C. Phelan is leaving the administration effective immediately.
- Parent’s Harrowing Near-Miss Exposes Dangers of Route 7 Traffic Amid Warehouse Push in Virginia County
This firsthand account serves as a stark reminder of the everyday risks families face on Virginia’s congested roadways, particularly Route 7, known for its heavy truck traffic and high speeds. The father’s testimony highlighted how current traffic levels already pose a grave threat to young children near Meadow Farms, presumed to be the local school
- Virginia Schools’ Air Quality Crisis: Bureaucratic Neglect Endangering Our Children
Take Chesterfield County as a prime example of this cautionary tale. Schools in the Douglas District have suffered major maintenance delays on their HVAC systems, leading to the release of Legionella bacteria.
- John Fredericks and John Reid Warn of Democratic Supermajority in Virginia Congress if Redistricting Amendment Passes
Conservative analysts John Fredericks and John Reid are sounding the alarm over Virginia’s upcoming constitutional referendum on congressional redistricting, predicting that approval of the measure would hand Democrats a near-total lock on the state’s 11 U.S. House seats for the remainder of the decade.
- Taxpayer-Funded Government Center in Virginia Faces Push for Pricey Green Add-Ons
From a perspective prioritizing fiscal responsibility, this push raises significant concerns about the prudent use of taxpayer dollars. Government buildings should prioritize durability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness rather than serving as experimental grounds for intermittent renewable technologies.
- Loudoun County Taxpayers Foot $85.8 Million Bill for Attainable Housing Push in FY27 Budget
The FY27 proposal includes $10.5 million for a loan program expected to fund 100 units and $4.5 million for the attainable housing fund targeting 110 units. In a move that diverts revenue from smokers, the board has committed a penny of cigarette tax revenue starting in FY2027 specifically for down payment and closing cost assistance.
- Virginia Delegate JJ Singh Calls for Banning Knives, Guns, Bats, and Cars as Assault Weapons
In his remarks, Singh revisited a gun violence bill that successfully passed the General Assembly and was signed into law. He then highlighted another measure that cleared the General Assembly but failed to secure the governor’s signature.
- Virginia Distilleries Champion HB 934 for Economic Freedom and Small Business Growth
Kutnow, speaking directly to the economic realities facing Virginia’s distilling industry, explained that HB 934 authorizes the ABC Authority to oversee on-premise sales of alcoholic beverages at distilleries. Under current rules, distilleries operate at a severe disadvantage compared to wineries and breweries, which share similar agricultural roots but enjoy broader opportunities for direct consu
- New Father Challenges Loudoun County’s Risky Plan for Maintenance Facility Near Playgrounds and Schools
The father, whose daughter is just two weeks old, articulated a heartfelt plea: ‘I believe this location is not befitting for the purpose that it is being intended for.’ He highlighted the potential hazards of a warehouse-like structure generating noise and traffic from heavy equipment in an area frequented by young families. The idea of
- HB 384: Championing Small Business Rights Against Outdated Virginia Liquor Laws
The root of this issue lies in Virginia’s unique state-controlled alcohol distribution system through the Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority. When a restaurant procures a barrel of spirits directly from a manufacturer, current law compels it to ship the barrel to ABC facilities rather than allowing it to remain on premises.
- Virginia House Bill 145: A Modest Tax on Fantasy Sports Operators Sparks Debate on Gaming Regulation
Fantasy sports, legalized under the 2016 Fantasy Contests Act, have operated with minimal state oversight for nearly a decade. Operators currently register but pay no specific state tax on their earnings from contests like fantasy football.
- Parent Delivers Passionate Plea Against Warehouse Project Citing Child Safety Risks and County Liability
Route 7 serves as a critical artery through Virginia’s northern regions, carrying thousands of vehicles daily, including high-speed commuters and commercial trucks. The father’s account paints a vivid picture of vulnerability: young children playing in close proximity to such hazards, with parents struggling to keep constant watch.
- Virginia slouches towards state-sanctioned Euthanasia
Virginia Democrats are pushing to decriminalize the suicide. What could happen next? by Bronson Winning Virginia Democrats have a bill on Governors Abigail Spanberger (D)’s desk, but the legislation will not stop there.
- Fairfax County Schools legal bills: $12 Million and counting
Fairfax County Schools legal bills: $12 Million and counting by Stephanie Lundquist-Arora Image credit: Chat GPT The Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Superintendent Michelle Reid , announced on March 23 that she was enlisting yet another law firm to “investigate”, the district’s latest scandal – allegations that a 18-year old illegal immigrant had fondled several
- Fairfax Schools’ refusal to release Title IX data invites mistrust
by Stephanie Lundquist-Arora Republished with permission from IWFeatures The U.S. Department of Education has announced an investigation into Fairfax County Public Schools to determine if the district discriminated based on sex.
- Virginia’s Private Cemeteries: Neglect Amid Property Rights Protections
When these sites become overgrown with vegetation, littered with debris, and damaged by weather or neglect, concerned citizens and history enthusiasts find their hands tied. Trespassing on private property remains illegal, safeguarding owners from unauthorized access.
- The Governor flexes her muscles
by Dick Hall Sizemore Governor Abigail Spanberger Governor Spanberger issued her first veto. It was a bill of high priority sponsored by one the Senate’s top Democrats.
- Spanberger wants RGGI to return in July and its Carbon Tax
By Steve Haner, Two Virginia independent power plants have reduced their operations since Virginia joined RGGI. Abigail Spanberger Administration told an energy industry magazine that they plan to rejoin Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative in July in order to participate in September and December 2026 carbon allowance auctions.
- The Louise Lucas Dilemma in the Virginia Senate
by James C. Sherlock Real victims can be the result of scandals.
- Voting Rights and the Left of Virginia
By James C. Sherlock The author was drawn to Dick Sizemore-Hall’s mailing it in.
- Loudoun County School Board Faces Backlash Over Alleged Cover-Up of Child Abuse in Classroom
The Loudoun County School Board, chaired by April Chandler and including members such as Anne Donahue as vice chair, along with other elected officials serving the district’s nine seats representing various magisterial districts, has come under fire. This board oversees one of Virginia’s largest and wealthiest school systems, yet faces accusations of failing to deliver
- Loudoun School Board Democrats Attempt Overreach in Heated SRO Expansion Debate
The Loudoun County School Board, comprising Chair April Chandler, Vice Chair Anne Donohue, Lauren Shernoff, Amy Riccardi, and other members representing the county’s nine districts and at-large seats, convened for what was billed as a business meeting under electronic participation rules. Overlays from the proceedings highlighted the core issue: the agenda allowed only for discussion
- Virginia Democrats pass the most extreme gun ban in America
by Bronson Winning Democrats in Richmond have advanced legislation that would eliminate the Second Amendment’s very essence. They did so without any restraint and with no regard for the Constitution.
- Republicans on House Rules Committee Delivers Win for Taxpayers by Defeating Costly Housing Task Force Bill
RICHMOND — The Virginia House Rules Committee’s Studies Subcommittee took a firm stand against government expansion on January 23, 2026, voting 5-0 to lay on the table HB 142, a bill that would have created the Access to Housing Task Force. This action, followed by the full committee leaving the measure in Rules on February
- Mark Warner’s Term Limit Pledge from 1996 Contradicted by Fourth Senate Run
In July 1996, Warner, then a political newcomer challenging incumbent Republican Senator John Warner, appeared on a local television broadcast. Speaking directly to voters, he stated unequivocally, ‘If I’m elected to the U.S.
- The RPV Eats Its Own, Part II — The Specifics
In my previous letter, “The RPV Eats Its Own, Part I — The General,” I raised broader concerns about the direction of the Republican Party of Virginia (RPV) and an emerging pattern of state-level interference in local party matters. That concern was not about personalities, but about principles: grassroots participation, local autonomy, and transparent process.
- Virginia Voters Must Vote No on Redistricting Amendment to Protect Fair Elections
The current system, born from voter-approved constitutional changes, was designed to end the practice of politicians choosing their voters rather than the other way around. Under this framework, a bipartisan commission handles redistricting, ensuring maps that promote competitive districts and represent the commonwealth’s diverse electorate.
- Mark Warner Faces Backlash for Breaking Two-Term Pledge as He Files for Fourth Senate Run
That campaign saw Warner challenge longtime Republican incumbent John Warner in a closely contested race. Despite a strong effort, Mark Warner fell short, losing by less than three percentage points.
- Loudoun County Faces New Push for 5-Cent Plastic Bag Tax Amid Fiscal Concerns by Marty Martinez
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, consisting of Chair Phyllis Randall, Vice Chair Mike Turner, and supervisors representing the Algonkian, Ashburn, Blue Ridge, Broad Run, Catoctin, Dulles, Leesburg, Loudoun Valley, and Sterling districts, recently heard public testimony highlighting the potential burdens of this policy. Speakers pointed out that Loudoun County has already collected substant
- Virginia Republicans Advocate for Shorter Early Voting to Cut Costs for Local Governments
The push comes amid ongoing discussions in legislative committees where delegates have highlighted how the cumulative length of early voting for primaries, generals, and other elections taxes resources. For instance, with 45 days of early voting before each major election, the total open polling period can stretch across months, requiring staffing, security, and facility maintenance
- The March RGGI carbon tax has risen 26% in one year
By Steve Haner, Virginia is now included in the RGGI map. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative held its first carbon allowance for 2026 on Wednesday.
- Democrats Push Risky Expansion of Mail Ballot Deadlines Amid Election Integrity Concerns
The speaker emphasized that the postal service ‘is not quite as reliable as it has been in the past,’ advocating for SB 58 to adjust the receipt deadline for mail ballots postmarked by Election Day. Currently, Virginia law requires these ballots to arrive by noon on the third day after the election.
- Virginia HB 261: Expanding Newport News Tax Powers Raises Eyebrows Among Property Rights Advocates
Proponents argue that such flexibility could provide local governments with tools to incentivize development, particularly housing construction. By taxing land more heavily, the policy aims to discourage speculation and underutilization of urban parcels, pushing owners toward productive use.
- Republicans Highlight Fiscal Realities in Debate Over Richmond School Funding and Sales Tax Leakage
Virginia’s local sales tax system directs one percent of the six percent total sales tax to the locality where the purchase occurs. This revenue is crucial for funding essential services, including public schools, which rely heavily on local taxes for roughly half their budgets.
- Democrats Push Controversial Redistricting Amendment in Virginia Referendum
The amendment, passed by the House of Delegates and the Senate during the recent legislative session, seeks to alter the redistricting process established by voters in 2020. That year, Virginians overwhelmingly approved Amendment 52 with 67 percent support, creating the bipartisan Virginia Redistricting Commission to handle decennial map drawing and curb partisan gerrymandering.
- Virginia Democrats Kill Health Care Learning Lab Bill, Denying Innovation and Economic Growth
RICHMOND, VA – A forward-thinking bill aimed at spurring innovation in Virginia’s health care sector by temporarily easing regulatory barriers has been left to languish in committee, marking a setback for efforts to foster economic growth and improve patient access to cutting-edge treatments. House Bill 146, introduced by Delegate Wren Williams of the 47th District,
- Republicans Lead Charge Against Burdensome Fantasy Sports Tax in Virginia Conference Committee
RICHMOND, VA – As the Virginia General Assembly session pushes forward, House Bill 145, known as the Fantasy Contests Act, remains stalled in a conference committee following strong Republican resistance to its proposed 10 percent tax on fantasy sports operators. Introduced by Delegate Paul Krizek on January 5, 2026, the legislation seeks to regulate and
- Republicans in Virginia House Overwhelmingly Approves to Bolster Tribal Role in Protecting Commonwealth’s Natural Heritage
RICHMOND, VA – In a strong show of support for preserving Virginia’s cherished landscapes and honoring the state’s federally recognized tribes, the House of Delegates passed House Bill 134 on February 3, 2026, by a vote of 93-5. The measure, which updates the Virginia Conservation Easement Act, empowers these tribes to serve as direct holders
- Virginia’s RGGI Rejoin Plan: A Costly Carbon Tax in Disguise
RGGI, a cap-and-trade program involving several Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states, requires power plants to purchase allowances for their carbon emissions through quarterly auctions. Proponents claim the proceeds fund clean energy and resiliency projects, but opponents point out the program’s regressive nature, hitting low-income households hardest through higher utility rates.
- Democrats Imposing Mandatory ‘Fair Housing and Appraisal Bias’ Training on Real Estate Professionals
In a move that expands government oversight into professional licensing, the Virginia Senate has advanced House Bill 170, requiring aspiring real estate appraisers to complete a specific two-hour course on fair housing and appraisal bias before obtaining their licenses.
- Virginia Democrats to Vote for Themselves 278% Pay Increase
by Scott Dreyer Recent days, the Democrat-led General Assembly voted to increase the salary of State Delegates and Senate to $50,000 per annum. Virginia has always had part-time lawmakers in its General Assembly.
- Democrats STOP New Legislation, Gender Transition Attempts on Minors as Child Abuse Stalls in House Committee
A significant legislative effort to protect Virginia’s children from what proponents view as harmful interventions took a setback this week when House Bill 158 was left in the Courts of Justice Committee.
- Republicans Approves Flexibility for IB Students in Advanced Diploma Graduation Requirements
The Virginia General Assembly has taken significant steps to recognize the demanding nature of the International Baccalaureate diploma program by incorporating provisions from House Bill 132 into House Bill 595, now awaiting the Governor’s action.
- Virginia Legislature Champions Religious Liberty with Passage of HB131 Mandating Accommodations at Public Colleges
RICHMOND — The Virginia General Assembly has delivered a resounding victory for religious freedom by passing House Bill 131, a measure that compels public institutions of higher education to offer reasonable accommodations for the religious beliefs and practices of individual students. Enrolled on March 6, 2026, and signed by both the Speaker of the House
- Delegate Cornett’s HB130 Seeks Vital Workers’ Compensation Protections for Virginia Sheriffs and Deputies
Prefiled on January 2, 2026, and offered on January 14, the legislation aims to extend critical workers’ compensation presumptions for certain cancers to sheriffs and their deputy sheriffs, recognizing the occupational hazards these public servants face daily.
- Virginia Republican Senate Advances Key Legislation to Shield Homeowners and Farmers from Rampant Deer Damage
RICHMOND — In a move to safeguard property rights and support Virginia’s agricultural backbone, the Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources Committee reported House Bill 129 with a substitute by a 13-2 vote on March 3, 2026. The legislation, sponsored by Delegate Mitchell Cornett, addresses the escalating issue of deer damage to residential plants and
- House Republicans Oppose Expansion of Felony Offenses in HB 438
RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia House of Delegates passed HB 438 on February 17, 2026, by a vote of 63-33, advancing a measure that broadens the ability of courts to divert juveniles accused of serious delinquent acts from formal adjudication proceedings. The bill, patroned by Delegate LeVere Bolling, amends sections of the Code of Virginia
- Virginia Republicans Unanimously Passes HB433 to Strengthen Newborn Screening Protections
This landmark legislation, titled ‘Newborn screening; evaluation of disorders for inclusion, process for considering other disorders,’ establishes a clear and accountable process for the Department of Health to evaluate and potentially add new disorders to Virginia’s newborn screening program.
- Virginia Republicans Unanimously Advances Extension of Alzheimer’s Commission to Aid Families
RICHMOND – The Virginia General Assembly delivered a strong victory for families across the Commonwealth by passing House Bill 431, which extends the expiration date of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Commission from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2029. The measure, sailed through both chambers with near-unanimous support, highlighting a rare moment of
- Democrats Block Student with Disabilities Diplomas
As the 2026 Virginia General Assembly session progresses, House Bill 428 stands as a beacon of promise for students with disabilities navigating the challenges of high school graduation. The legislation seeks to establish an alternative pathway to the standard diploma, addressing a critical gap in the current system that often leaves capable students shortchanged due to rigid assessment requiremen