Since October 7th, Jewish families here in Virginia and across the country have faced a shocking rise in antisemitism — especially on our college campuses. No student should feel unsafe walking to class, and no Virginian should be harassed because of their faith or heritage.

 

That is why I strongly support the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism. It is the most widely respected global standard, offering clarity by identifying traditional antisemitism and modern expressions—including contexts where attacks on Israel cross into hate against Jewish people. It ensures we can distinguish between legitimate policy debate and bigotry—and equips schools, institutions, and communities to act consistently against discrimination.

 

As Lieutenant Governor, I will always stand with Virginia’s Jewish community. I was proud to join the march in Richmond in solidarity, and I will continue to speak out against antisemitism in every form.

 

Unfortunately, my opponent, Senator Ghazala Hashmi, abstained from voting on the IHRA definition[1]—or the identical anti‑discrimination legislation[2]—in the Senate, despite supporting the same policies in the House. She lobbied colleagues against the adoption, and when it came time for the final vote, she opted to avoid the accountability of a recorded stance.

 

The Jewish Community Federation of Richmond also publicly expressed that they were “extremely disappointed” by her failure to notify Jewish or law‑enforcement groups in advance of a key Senate hearing, which forced some attendees to require police escort to exit safely.[3]

 

Virginia deserves leaders who will take a clear stand for truth and against hate—not sidestep tough decisions. I will always stand with Virginia’s Jewish community, with Israel’s right to exist, and with the fight against hate.

 

[1] HB1606, Virginia State Legislative Information System, March 23, 2023.

[2] SB7, Virginia State Legislative Information System, February 9, 2024.

[3] Jewish Insider. “Virginia Democrats Split on IHRA Antisemitism Definition.” Jewish Insider, April 4, 2025.