(RepublicanView.org) – Levar Stoney, Richmond’s Democrat mayor, has announced his candidacy for Virginia governor.
The announcement for the 2025 race came on December 5 via a video posted online. Stoney claims he will be a strong voice in the name of equality and bringing about improvements in the state. He also discussed the poverty of his childhood and becoming the first college graduate in his family in an attempt to connect with voters.
The 42-year-old will be contending with former CIA official Abigail Spanberger. She announced her candidacy last month, touting her ability to work with officials on both sides of the political spectrum. Spanberger made headlines last year after she abruptly withdrew from a debate, reportedly over issues with the moderator and security concerns.
So far, no Republican contenders have announced their candidacies. However, some reports have suggested that Winsome Earle-Sears, the lieutenant governor, and Attorney General Jason Miyares are likely GOP contenders to replace Republican governor Glenn Youngkin.
Stoney was quick to criticize Youngkin in his announcement. He accused the current governor of banning books and abortion while making it more difficult for Virginians to vote. Youngkin has made headlines during his tenure for banning critical race theory and the book “Gender Queer” from elementary schools.
Former governor Terry McAuliffe originally appointed Stoney as Virginia’s first black Secretary of the Commonwealth. Stoney fought to restore more rights to residents convicted of felonies during his tenure in that role. He also became the youngest mayor of Richmond in 2016.
Stoney played a critical role in having confederate monuments removed from Richmond during his tenure. He claimed the statues had been left standing to “intimidate” minorities.
Several prominent black leaders throughout the state have been quick to endorse Stoney’s candidacy. Those leaders include state senators and members of the Virginia General Assembly.
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