RICHMOND, VA — State Senator Ghazala Hashmi (D) has defeated conservative talk show host John Reid in the Virginia lieutenant governor’s race, making history as the first Indian person to hold statewide office in Virginia and the first Muslim woman to win a statewide race in the U.S.
Hashmi maintained a lead over Reid throughout much of the general election, though polls showed a tightening race in the final days before Election Day. In the Democratic primary this past June, she narrowly prevailed over former Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and State Senator Aaron Rouse, securing her spot on the ballot.
Representing the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, Hashmi drew key endorsements during the primary, including support from Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), and campaigned on issues ranging from economic equity to education and public safety.
Her victory marks a historic milestone for diversity in U.S. politics, reflecting the growing representation of Indian Americans and Muslim women in elected office.
Hashmi will take office alongside Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger and Attorney General-elect, forming a Democratic leadership team in Virginia following the 2025 elections.
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