Ghazala Hashmi Wins with Progressive Values

If there was a moment that changed the race for the Democratic nomination for Lieutenant Governor, it would definitely be when Senator Ghazala Hashmi delivered a speech in the bed of a pickup trump outside of a protest against Governor Glenn Youngkin in Church Hill.

Hashmi did not shy away from progressive politics. She built a coalition of progressives from Virginia New Majority, to Equality Virginia and Virginia Education Association. Never afraid stand for transgender rights, reproductive access or unions. Hashmi joined the picket lines of Starbuck workers in December.

Hashmi did exceptional well in Richmond in a crowded field of candidates. She collected a share of 58% of votes compared to former Mayor Levar Stoney who only won 20% of Richmond votes. Stoney was able to have former Governor Terry McAuliffe in his campaign ads in the final weeks.

Hashmi held her watch party in Richmond's Fan district with a group elected officials from across Central Virginia including some from Richmond. Addressing the media and the supporters, Hashmi declared victory and proclaimed "We are ready to defend the values that make the Commonwealth Strong.​ Equity, Inclusive, Opportunity, and Justice for All."

Among those with Hashmi at the watch party include City Councilwoman Stephanie Lynch who said about Hashmi that, "the broad coalition that she's built represents legislators, policy makers, community members, most importantly, that feel very deeply and passionately about seeing this country rise above all the negativity."

Alexsis Rogers ran against Levar Stoney for Mayor in 2020 said that what put Hashmi over the top was her record of passing progressive policies like environmental justice, housing, stoping gun violence, and reproductive access.

As Delegate Mike Jones put it, "Hashmi is an American name."