I. Vision: A Commonwealth That Works

 

Virginia should make it easier to work — not harder.

 

But too many working Virginians are boxed out of opportunity by red tape, outdated regulations, and political agendas that prioritize government control over individual freedom. While Democrats like Abigail Spanberger push big-government schemes to expand bureaucracy, raise mandates, and centralize power, John Reid is taking a different path.

 

The Workforce Freedom Agenda is about restoring dignity to work by removing barriers, defending your rights, and expanding access to opportunity — not by growing government, but by getting it out of the way.

 

II. Policy Pillars

 

1. Defend the Right to Work

• Protect Virginia’s Right to Work law. Reid will oppose any attempt to repeal the law that ensures no Virginian can be forced to join or pay a union to keep their job.

• Stop forced dues. He will stand up to coercive labor policies that make workers fund political causes they don’t support.

 

“Freedom includes the right to say no — and that means the right to say no to union bosses.”

 

2. Recognize Out-of-State Licenses

• Universal license recognition. If you’re qualified to work in another state, you should be able to work in Virginia without jumping through duplicative hoops.

• Cut wait times. Implement a 30-day fast-track process for licensing decisions — especially critical for military spouses, nurses, and skilled tradesmen.

 

“Let’s stop treating newcomers like criminals and start welcoming them like neighbors.”

 

3. Modernize Credentialing for a 21st Century Workforce

• Streamline entry for career-switchers and returning workers. Create “Workforce Comeback” pathways with competency-based credentialing and skill-based hiring models.

• Expand recognition of military training. Veterans and military families deserve credit for the skills they already have — without bureaucratic second-guessing.

• Support fast, affordable upskilling. Partner with private providers and local employers for credential programs that deliver results without four-year delays.

 

“The best job training programs are the ones that lead directly to jobs — not more debt.”

 

4. Fix the Pipeline, Not Just the End Point

• Double down on Career and Technical Education (CTE). Focus on high school reform that restores trades, entrepreneurship, and technical education as respected pathways to success.

• Expand dual-enrollment and VoTech partnerships. But keep control local and employer-led — not driven by Richmond bureaucrats.

• Cut red tape for small business apprenticeships. Make it easier for small firms to train and hire the next generation without dealing with federal-style overregulation.

 

“We don’t need more job programs in Richmond. We need more jobs in Roanoke, Richmond, and everywhere in between.”

 

5. Make Work Pay

• Oppose government mandates like a $15 minimum wage that would crush rural and small-town employers.

• Instead of mandates, cut taxes and barriers so businesses can afford to hire, expand, and raise wages organically.

• Protect gig workers and independent contractors from reclassification schemes that limit freedom and flexibility.

 

“Not everyone wants to punch a clock. Let’s protect those who build their own schedule and chase their own dream.”

 

III. John Reid: Fighting for the Dignity of Work

 

John Reid knows that work isn’t just a paycheck — it’s about pride, purpose, and providing for your family.

 

His Workforce Freedom Agenda sends a clear message: In Virginia, we trust you. Not government mandates. Not union bosses. Not career politicians.

 

We trust hardworking Virginians to build this Commonwealth — and John Reid will make sure nothing stands in their way.