Governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin in an exclusive Q&A with South Asian Herald on January 4, 2025, underscored the importance of Republicans securing control of both the Virginia House and Senate in the special election on January 7th, emphasizing conservative policies like tax relief, public safety, and parental involvement in education. Governor Youngkin highlighted Tumay Harding and Ram Venkatachalam as dedicated leaders ready to represent Loudoun County. He also noted that President Donald Trump’s recent success in Virginia strengthens GOP confidence and commended the contributions of Indian Americans and other South Asian communities to the state. Amid an incoming snowstorm, early voting and emergency preparations are underway to ensure a smooth election process.
Why is it critical for Republicans to secure control of both the House and Senate in this special election?
Loudoun County has an incredible opportunity to send two leaders to Richmond who will go to work right away on the issues that matter most. Tumay Harding and Ram Venkatachalam are commonsense conservatives who will be dedicated partners in our work to provide further tax relief for Virginia families, address the most hated car tax, protect our communities from dangerous sanctuary city policies, and keep parents at the head seat of the table in their children’s lives.
What impact, if any, do you think President Donald Trump’s recent victory might have on this election?
Virginians understand that commonsense, conservative leadership works. They’ve seen it firsthand in Virginia – lower taxes, more jobs, a roaring economy, law enforcement that is supported and communities that are safe, and students that have access to the best education with their parents at the head seat of the table. President Trump’s victory and his strong performance in Virginia shows that commonsense conservative leadership not only works here but can win here. Tumay and Ram have that leadership, and that’s why I’m urging Virginians to vote for them.
Can you elaborate on Ram Venkatachalam’s leadership and candidacy in this election?
Ram’s story is the story of the American dream. Ram chose not only to pursue his dreams and build his family in Virginia, but also to serve his community. Whether it is his service as an elections officer or on the Transit Advisory Board, Ram has been a dedicated leader for Loudoun. I know he will bring that same dedication to Richmond.
Could you highlight the contributions of Indian Americans and other South Asian communities in Virginia?
Indian Americans and South Asian communities across Virginians are real pillars for our Commonwealth. They are veterans who’ve served and sacrificed for our freedom, entrepreneurs who drive our economy and jobs forward, faith leaders, and so much more. Most importantly, they are Americans and Virginians who are so dedicated to the mission we all share – making our Commonwealth the best place to live, work, and raise a family.
What specific steps are you implementing to ensure the special election proceeds smoothly, considering you have declared a state of emergency due to the incoming snowstorm?
I have urged Virginians to vote early on Saturday [January 4th] ahead of the expected snowstorm that may impact voting on Tuesday. I also issued a state of emergency, and urged Virginians to monitor weather forecasts, prepare for potential impacts, and heed warnings from local officials.
https://twitter.com/GovernorVA/status/1875316254778728516
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