Hi, it’s Lieutenant Governor Ghazala Hashmi.
I was sworn in last week, and already this role has taken me into communities across Virginia who are showing up with urgency, hope, and a deep commitment to one another. And now that my first week is officially in the books, I wanted to share a snapshot of what I’ve been up to and the work we are already doing together.
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Last week began with my swearing-in as Virginia’s 73rd Lieutenant Governor. It is a profound honor to serve in this role, and a responsibility I carry with humility.
As the first Muslim American woman elected statewide in our nation, I am deeply aware that this moment belongs not just to me, but to so many Virginians who deserve to see themselves represented in our democracy. |
Then, on Monday, I joined advocates and families at the 34th Annual Virginia Vigil & Advocacy Day to Prevent Gun Violence. I spoke about what we know to be true: when states pass gun safety laws, fewer people die. Fewer children are harmed. Fewer families are shattered.
Virginia is ready to return to the table this session — because our communities demand and deserve action to keep our kids safe. |
A few days later, I was proud to stand with community leaders, young people, and climate advocates at Climate and Affordability Day.
We discussed how clean energy and affordability must move together. A transition without accountability leaves families behind, and accountability without vision leaves us stuck. Virginia can and must lead with policies that are fair, forward-looking, and centered on the public good.
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On Thursday, I met with advocates from Everytown, Moms Demand Action, and Students Demand Action.
Too many families live with the fear of mass shootings, and too many lives are lost to gun suicide. I refuse to accept this violence as inevitable. I will continue working with my colleagues to pass sensible gun laws and to fight for a Virginia where safety is not a privilege.
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Lastly, I also sat down with VPM News to talk about what this moment requires of state leadership.
As we see an abdication of responsibility at the federal level, Virginia must step up — lowering costs, strengthening health care, supporting public education, and making housing more affordable. My goal as Lieutenant Governor is to elevate voices from every corner of the Commonwealth and bring their priorities to the work we do in Richmond. This first week has reinforced what I already knew: the challenges before us are serious, but so is the resolve of the people of Virginia. I am grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me, and I can’t wait to continue working for our beautiful Commonwealth! With gratitude and determination, Ghazala Hashmi
Lieutenant Governor of Virginia |
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Paid for by Ghazala for Virginia
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