Gardner announces candidacy for Hashmi’s soon-to-be-vacant Senate seat after election win
VENN
CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Following Virginia voters' election of Sen. Ghazala Hashmi (D-Chesterfield) as their next lieutenant governor, Del. Debra Gardner (D-Chesterfield) announced her candidacy for the Senate District 15 seat.
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, Virginians selected Hashmi to be the next lieutenant governor of the Commonwealth. She defeated her Republican opponent, former Richmond radio host John Reid.
"I want to thank Lt. Gov-Elect Hashmi for her service as our state senator and I'm ready to continue the work she's begun," Gardner said in a Nov. 6 press release. "I've spent my career serving Virginia families -- from protecting survivors of abuse to fighting for fair wages and affordable health care. As your next State Senator, I'll keep fighting for everyone to have the opportunity for a better future. I'm excited to work with Gov.-Elect Spanberger to move Virginia forward and protect our narrow Senate majority."
This comes after Del. Mike Jones (D-Richmond) announced his candidacy to be the Democratic nominee for Hashmi's soon-to-be-vacant Senate seat.
"From day one, my campaigns have always been powered by people, and I'm proud to have the support of small business owners, teachers, parents, faith leaders and community advocates who want a voice in Richmond and a future that works for everyone," Gardner said, reportedly building her candidacy on advocacy for working families.
She began her career as a social worker defending women and children from abuse, protecting reproductive freedom, investing in public schools and lowering costs for working families, according to the release.
