Virginia's current administration, led by Gov. Abigail Spanberger, is facing criticism regarding its economic and social policies, according to a former state official. Jason Miyares, Virginia's Attorney General from 2022 to 2026, argues that the state has reversed positive trends established during the previous administration.
Miyares contends that under the administration of Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Virginia experienced significant economic growth, climbing into the top five states for job creation and attracting over $156 billion in new business investment. The period also saw budget surpluses and tax relief, alongside a reduction in the murder rate and drug overdose deaths.
Economic and Tax Policies Under Scrutiny
Miyares alleges that Virginia Democrats have proposed substantial tax increases, including a payroll tax and a carbon tax. These measures, coupled with new regulatory burdens, are estimated by the Thomas Jefferson Institute for Public Policy to have increased the effective cost of hiring in Virginia by 22.5%. The article notes that companies like Boeing and Amazon have announced closures or layoffs in the commonwealth.
Furthermore, Miyares criticizes the administration's energy policy, which he describes as prioritizing intermittent wind and solar power over more reliable sources like natural gas and nuclear energy. He asserts that a mandate requiring ratepayers to purchase renewable energy credits, which do not generate actual electricity, is a de facto carbon tax costing Virginians hundreds of millions of dollars annually.
Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Concerns
The former attorney general also raises concerns about changes to the criminal justice system. He points to the “Enhanced Earned Sentence Credits” program, which he states has led to the early release of over 9,000 convicted felons, with nearly half subsequently being re-arrested. Miyares, a former prosecutor, emphasizes the importance of accountability and serving imposed sentences.
Additionally, he criticizes an order directing state law enforcement to cease cooperation with federal authorities on deporting violent undocumented immigrants, even those convicted of serious crimes. Miyares argues this policy puts Virginians at risk.
Labor and Redistricting Issues
Miyares also addresses labor policies, specifically criticizing the potential abolition of Virginia's right-to-work law, a stance he attributes to Governor Spanberger's past legislative record. He also objects to proposed mandatory collective bargaining legislation for government employees, which he claims would strip local governments of flexibility and lead to property tax increases.
Finally, Miyares accuses the administration of engaging in partisan politics in defiance of the state constitution, referencing a proposed congressional redistricting map that he claims was a partisan gerrymander. He notes that the state Supreme Court struck down this map.