Virginia Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin has released a video ad inviting the new workers and officials of the second Trump administration to consider settling in Virginia over the District of Columbia and neighboring Maryland. Youngkin emphasized that Virginia offers better schools and a higher quality of life compared to its neighboring states.
Youngkin referenced a study ranking Virginia first in the U.S. for education and first overall for business, surpassing North Carolina in 2023. He highlighted Virginia's safe communities, award-winning schools, and lower taxes as attractive features for new residents.
In contrast, Maryland was ranked 31st in terms of business-friendliness, while the District of Columbia was not ranked in the study. The video ad showcased various scenes across Virginia, from the capital city of Richmond to the historic Old Town Alexandria.
Youngkin, who views education as essential for achieving the American dream, worked with the state legislative majority to secure $2.5 billion in new K-12 funding and 3% raises for teachers. The governor's efforts to improve the state's education system have been recognized in the study.
Responding to Youngkin's invitation, a Trump transition team spokesman praised the governor's leadership in promoting common sense policies, low taxes, and a high quality of life in Virginia. Youngkin's unexpected victory in the 2021 election marked a significant political shift in the state, which had been under Democratic control for nearly a decade.
As Virginia law prohibits governors from serving consecutive terms, Lt. Governor Winsome Sears has announced her candidacy for the 2025 gubernatorial race, aiming to continue the progress made during the Youngkin administration. The upcoming gubernatorial contest is expected to feature prominent Democrat Rep. Abigail Spanberger, who has resigned from her congressional seat to run for governor.
Virginia's political landscape continues to evolve, with new faces emerging in key leadership positions as the state prepares for the next chapter in its governance.
