The Virginia Attorney General race is emerging as one of the most watched statewide contests heading into 2025. With the state’s political balance closely divided, both parties are gearing up for a fierce fight over the office that serves as Virginia’s top legal authority. The position’s influence on public safety, education policy, and constitutional interpretation makes this race pivotal for voters across the Commonwealth.
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Jason Miyares Prepares for Possible Re-Election Campaign
Current Attorney General Jason Miyares, a Republican first elected in 2021, has yet to make a formal announcement about his re-election plans. However, his actions and travel schedule suggest a campaign launch is imminent. Miyares has visited key regions, highlighting his office’s work on combating violent crime, fentanyl trafficking, and consumer fraud.
During his term, Miyares gained national visibility for challenging several federal policies and supporting parents’ rights in education. His approval rating, measured by the Wason Center for Civic Leadership earlier this year, remains strong among conservative voters but more mixed among independents. Political analysts expect Miyares to announce his candidacy before the General Assembly session ends in early 2025.
Democrats Eye a Comeback Opportunity
Democrats are eager to reclaim the attorney general’s office after losing it four years ago. Several potential contenders are testing the waters for a statewide run:
- Jay Jones, a former delegate from Norfolk who ran in 2021, is weighing another bid and remains a popular figure in Hampton Roads.
- Shannon Taylor, the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Henrico County, is considering entering the primary. Her experience as a prosecutor gives her a strong public safety record to campaign on.
- Steve Descano, Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney, has been a high-profile advocate for criminal justice reform and could energize progressive voters.
The Democratic field is expected to take shape in the first half of 2025, setting up a spirited primary before the June nomination deadline.
Virginia’s Political Climate Sets the Stage
Virginia’s political landscape has shifted several times over the past decade. Republicans regained the governor’s mansion in 2021 with Glenn Youngkin’s victory, along with wins for lieutenant governor and attorney general. But Democrats clawed back legislative control in the 2023 elections, creating a divided government that often pits the executive branch against the General Assembly.
That dynamic ensures the attorney general’s race will carry extra significance. The winner will influence how the state interprets new laws, defends its statutes in court, and navigates disputes between the governor and lawmakers.
Key Issues Driving the Virginia Attorney General Race
Several major issues are already shaping campaign messaging on both sides of the aisle:
- Public Safety: Republicans are emphasizing violent crime prevention, police funding, and community safety initiatives.
- Education and Parental Rights: Conservatives continue to focus on classroom transparency and parental involvement in school decisions.
- Abortion and Reproductive Rights: Democrats are expected to center their campaigns on protecting access to abortion services after the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision.
- Consumer Protection: Both parties agree on strengthening oversight of scams, data breaches, and corporate misconduct but differ on how to enforce such regulations.
These topics will feature prominently in debates, advertising, and town halls throughout 2025.
Fundraising and Early Endorsements
Campaign finance filings show that Miyares has maintained a strong fundraising advantage heading into 2025. His political committee reported millions in available cash, supported by national conservative donors and Governor Youngkin’s political network.
On the Democratic side, fundraising is accelerating as potential candidates build early war chests. National groups such as the Democratic Attorneys General Association (DAGA) have already identified Virginia as a key target. Labor unions, reproductive-rights advocates, and environmental organizations are expected to play major roles in shaping endorsements during the primary season.
Polling: A Divided but Competitive Electorate
Early polling underscores Virginia’s competitiveness. Surveys from Christopher Newport University’s Wason Center show that about 45% of Virginians currently approve of Miyares’ performance, while roughly 43% disapprove. Independents remain split, signaling that turnout and messaging could determine the race’s outcome.
Democrats see opportunity in the state’s growing suburban population, particularly in Northern Virginia and Richmond’s outer counties. Republicans, meanwhile, aim to maintain strong rural and exurban support while limiting Democratic margins in urban centers.
Timeline of the 2025 Attorney General Election
| Phase | Expected Date | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| Candidate Announcements | Winter–Spring 2025 | Miyares and Democratic challengers launch campaigns |
| Primary Elections | June 2025 | Parties select official nominees |
| General Election Campaign | Summer–Fall 2025 | Debates, advertisements, and statewide rallies |
| Election Day | November 2025 | Voters elect Virginia’s next attorney general |
The timeline ensures a long campaign season, with both parties using the spring months to test messages and raise funds.
Why the Attorney General’s Office Matters
The Virginia attorney general serves as the Commonwealth’s chief legal officer, responsible for representing the state in court, providing legal opinions to agencies, and enforcing consumer and criminal statutes. The office’s influence extends beyond state borders, often affecting national legal debates on abortion rights, environmental policy, and business regulation.
Recent years have seen Virginia’s attorney general involved in high-profile lawsuits challenging federal rules on education, emissions, and healthcare. Whoever wins in 2025 will inherit a docket full of politically sensitive cases that could shape national discourse.
How Voters Are Viewing the Contest
Interviews with voters across Virginia show varied priorities. Suburban parents often cite education and school safety as top concerns. Rural voters emphasize crime, opioid abuse, and infrastructure. Younger residents tend to focus on reproductive rights, climate issues, and affordable housing.
This mix of priorities ensures the race will feature nuanced, regional campaigning. Candidates who can connect across those divides — particularly in swing areas like Chesterfield, Loudoun, and Virginia Beach — will likely gain the upper hand.
National Significance of the Race
Because Virginia frequently mirrors national trends, the attorney general contest will draw attention from political observers across the country. Both national parties view it as a bellwether for upcoming 2026 midterm races.
High voter engagement and record fundraising are expected. The outcome could also influence how presidential campaigns approach Virginia during the 2028 election cycle.
Outlook: A Tight Contest Ahead
With less than a year until Election Day, the Virginia Attorney General race remains wide open. Miyares’ incumbency and record provide him a platform, but Democratic momentum in the legislature gives challengers confidence. Pollsters predict a close race where suburban turnout could prove decisive.
Voters’ concerns about safety, education, and rights will define the narrative. As both sides prepare for an expensive, high-energy campaign, Virginia once again stands at the intersection of state and national politics.
With candidates organizing, fundraising accelerating, and key issues taking shape, Virginia’s 2025 attorney general contest promises to be one of the nation’s most competitive races. Stay informed and share your thoughts on how you see this race unfolding across the Commonwealth.
