Virginia's Statewide Candidates: Stark Differences in LGBTQ Policy Positions

As the Virginia statewide elections approach on November 4, candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general present widely divergent views on LGBTQ rights. The election outcome is pivotal, as noted by Narissa Rahaman, executive director of Equality Virginia, a leading advocacy group for LGBTQ equality in the state.

Governor: Abigail Spanberger vs. Winsome Earle-Sears

The gubernatorial race features former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat, against Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, a Republican. The two candidates differ notably in their stances on LGBTQ issues. Spanberger, who previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives, champions LGBTQ rights, advocating for state leadership that protects these rights amidst federal rollbacks. She has supported significant legislation, such as the Respect for Marriage Act and the Equality Act, and emphasizes inclusivity in her campaign.

In contrast, Earle-Sears has a history of anti-LGBTQ positions, including a refusal to apologize for misgendering state Sen. Danica Roem, the first openly transgender person elected to the Virginia Senate. Earle-Sears has been vague on her stance regarding a constitutional ban on marriage equality, drawing criticism from LGBTQ advocates.

Polling indicates Spanberger is currently leading Earle-Sears by 12 points, according to a survey conducted by Christian Newport University. The winner of this election will also make history as Virginia’s first woman governor.

Lieutenant Governor: Ghazala Hashmi vs. John Reid

The race for lieutenant governor brings State Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, a Democrat, against John Reid, a Republican and the first openly gay person nominated for statewide office in Virginia. Hashmi is outspoken in her support for LGBTQ rights, including backing legislation to ban conversion therapy and advocating for nonbinary gender markers on driver's licenses.

Although Reid supports marriage equality, his campaign has sparked controversy due to his refusal to endorse a constitutional amendment protecting marriage equality and his denial of transgender identities. Reid's candidacy faced additional challenges when allegations of inappropriate social media activity emerged, leading to calls for his withdrawal from the race by Republican leaders.

Despite these issues, Reid remains in the race, though Hashmi holds a lead of 11 points in the latest polls, according to CNU.

Attorney General: Jason Miyares vs. Jay Jones

Incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares, a Republican, faces a challenge from former state Delegate Jay Jones, a Democrat. The contrast between their positions is stark, particularly on issues involving the transgender community. Jones has advocated for eliminating health coverage limitations based on gender identity and for repealing the state's marriage ban.

Miyares, on the other hand, has opposed extending Title IX protections to LGBTQ students and has implemented state regulations that prioritize parental authority in matters of student identity and gender expression.

The race is competitive, with Jones leading by seven points among likely voters, according to CNU polling data.

With the election drawing near, Virginians have multiple options for voter registration, including online, by mail, or in person. Early voting began on September 19, offering residents the chance to register on the same day or submit provisional ballots on Election Day.

The outcomes of these races could significantly impact the direction of LGBTQ rights in Virginia, making this election a crucial moment for advocates and voters alike.