Virginia attorney general expects ‘a lot more common sense’ during Trump presidency
Republican Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares expressed optimism about the incoming Trump administration, anticipating that “a lot more common sense” policies would come out of Washington. Miyares highlighted the need to roll back regulations that have burdened Americans over the past four years, citing examples such as the OSHA vaccine mandate and controversial interpretations of Title IX.
With President-elect Donald Trump preparing to take office in January, Miyares emphasized the potential for significant changes under the new Republican leadership. He noted that the administration’s approach would likely differ from the left-wing ideology of the previous administration and expressed eagerness to see the developments unfold.
As Trump begins to announce Cabinet nominations and policy plans, Miyares refrained from directly commenting on the nomination of Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz as the next attorney general. However, he emphasized the importance of working alongside the new AG and expressed confidence in the Senate’s role in advising and consenting on such appointments.
Miyares recently made headlines for challenging a court ruling that ordered Virginia to restore the names of potential noncitizens to its voter rolls. Alongside Governor Glenn Youngkin, Miyares defended the voter removal process as compliant with state and federal laws, ultimately securing a victory in the case.
Looking ahead to the future, Miyares is poised for re-election in 2025, although he has not yet announced his formal plans. Meanwhile, two Democrats, former Virginia delegate Jay Jones and Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor, have declared their intentions to run for the attorney general position, with both criticizing Gaetz’s nomination.
Despite Democratic opposition to Gaetz’s potential appointment, Trump reiterated his support for the congressman in a post on Truth Social, praising Gaetz for his efforts to reform the Department of Justice. Gaetz confirmed his nomination on social media, expressing his readiness to serve as Attorney General under President Trump.
Following the announcement, Gaetz resigned from his congressional post, prompting concerns among Republicans about his past involvement in a DOJ investigation related to allegations of a sexual relationship with a minor. Despite the lack of charges filed in the case, Gaetz’s nomination has raised questions within the GOP.
In conclusion, Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares remains optimistic about the future under the incoming Trump administration, anticipating positive changes and a departure from the policies of the previous administration. As the political landscape evolves, Virginia and the nation as a whole are poised for potential shifts in leadership and policy direction.
