Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earl Sears has officially filed paperwork to run for governor in 2025, following the tradition in Virginia where a governor cannot serve two consecutive terms. Sears, a Marine Corps veteran who immigrated to the U.S. from Jamaica at a young age, could potentially become the nation's first black female governor.
In an exclusive interview, Sears emphasized the importance of economic development in Virginia, highlighting the state's growth in attracting corporate headquarters and fostering business incubation. She expressed the need to continue building on the foundation laid by Governor Youngkin, focusing on creating jobs, lowering taxes, and ensuring safety and security.
Reflecting on her past electoral success, Sears pointed out her ability to win against the odds, flipping a Democratic seat to Republican in a predominantly Democratic and African American district. She stressed the importance of having the right ideas and voter mandate to drive progress despite facing opposition.
When asked about potential challenges from other candidates, Sears remained focused on moving forward and addressing the pressing issues facing the state. She highlighted the need for bold and decisive leadership to tackle the challenges ahead and emphasized the urgency of planning for the future.
Regarding endorsements and past criticisms, Sears maintained a forward-looking approach, expressing readiness for any challenges that may arise. While unsure about Governor Youngkin's endorsement, she emphasized their strong working relationship and shared Republican values.
In response to potential Democratic candidates, Sears noted differences in campaign messaging and highlighted her military background as a distinguishing factor. She remained steadfast in her commitment to Republican principles and collaborative governance.
