Author: Winsome for Governor

Earle-Sears’ American Dream story will be delivered to voters in key markets on broadcast and cable television and statewide on digital platforms 

Richmond, VA —  Republican gubernatorial nominee Winsome Earle-Sears is making a bold statement in the 2025 race with a major, seven-figure television advertising investment in key markets, including Richmond and Norfolk, as well as on digital platforms statewide. The campaign’s first spot titled, “Seven Quarters,” begins airing today and introduces voters to the inspiring life story of Winsome Earle-Sears. From immigrating to America as a young girl with just seven quarters in her father’s pocket, to enlisting in the Marine Corps, building a small business, and raising a family founded on faith and sacrifice, Earle-Sears is living proof that the American Dream is alive and it is her mission to keep it that way for all Virginians.

“Seven Quarters” sets the tone for a campaign rooted in faith, family, and freedom. Offering Virginians a proven leader who has lived the American Dream and is ready to fight to protect it.

The ad begins airing today on broadcast and cable across key Virginia markets and statewide on digital platforms.

“A buck 75. When dad came to America, that’s all he had.

But, for a little girl in Jamaica, that little bit of change changed everything.

Dad drove taxis, saved every dime he could, and six years later legally brought us to America – saved me.

I joined the Marines because I was willing to give my life for this country that gave me the world. I met my husband, started a family and built a business.

I ran a homeless shelter, led a men’s prison ministry, and dealt with grief no parent should endure. I’m Winsome Earl Sears. I’m not a typical politician and I never will be. I’m a grandma, first generation American, and proud Marine.  

I’m running for governor to keep Virginia the greatest place in the world to call home.”

Virginians across the Commonwealth get a dangerous preview of what a Spanberger governorship would look like

Richmond, VA – Abigail Spanberger’s close allies, Fairfax County Commonwealth Attorney Steve Descano and Sheriff Stacey Kincaid, released another violent criminal illegal immigrant back into the community—despite his federal firearm conviction and allegations of violent crimes.

Fairfax County officials refused to cooperate with ICE and released the individual, putting law-abiding Virginians directly at risk. And this is not an isolated incident.

“This is what Spanberger’s Virginia looks like: criminals walk free, ICE is ignored, and law enforcement is undermined,” said campaign press secretary Peyton Vogel. “When you surround yourself with radical weak-on-crime allies like Descano and Kincaid, the consequences fall squarely on your shoulders. Time and time again, Spanberger proves to Virginians that she doesn’t take their safety seriously. This is just another example.”

Just this week, three Virginia Department of Corrections officers were stabbed in a brutal, premeditated prison attack involving five MS-13 gang members—all Salvadoran illegal aliens previously convicted of heinous crimes including murder and rape. This horrifying event underscores what happens when criminal illegal immigrants are allowed to slip through the cracks and reinforces the deadly consequences of sanctuary-style policies embraced by Spanberger and her allies.

Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears has consistently fought to end sanctuary policies, restore full law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, and hold local officials accountable when they place political agendas above public safety.

Earle-Sears becomes Commonwealth’s first female and Black Republican nominee for governor

Richmond, VA — Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears today officially secured the Republican nomination for Governor of Virginia, a historic victory that positions her as the Commonwealth’s first female and Black Republican nominee for governor.

“I am deeply grateful for the support of the tens of thousands of Virginians who worked to earn our campaign’s place on the ballot this fall,” said Earle-Sears. “The stakes in this race couldn’t be higher – we must continue our work to protect the Commonwealth from radical changes that would undo the progress we’ve made in restoring prosperity to Virginia. I will never stop fighting to make life more affordable, our schools stronger, and our communities safer. We’ve delivered important progress over the past four years, and we still have so much more to do. I am honored to serve as the Republican nominee in this race and will deliver a victory for every Virginian this fall.”

Earle-Sears, a mother, Marine, immigrant and small business owner, has built a reputation for strong, principled leadership and a results-driven approach. Since taking office in 2022, she has championed policies that lower costs, empower families, and protect individual freedoms. Her nomination sets the stage for a focused and energized campaign heading into the general election.

BACKGROUND:

Winsome Earle-Sear’s public service began in 2001 when she was elected to the House of Delegates, where she led efforts to improve education and expand opportunity.

Throughout her career, she has never shied away from hard decisions. As Lieutenant Governor, she led reforms across 13 medical boards, championed legislative change, and fought to increase educational freedom, scoring major victories for charter schools. Her commitment to public safety was clear when she stood up to hate groups like the KKK, reinforcing that burning a cross is not free speech, but a terrorist act.

Earle-Sears has also served our communities directly, including leadership roles at a men’s prison ministry and a women’s homeless shelter—proof that her convictions are not just political, but personal. Her nomination sets the stage for a determined campaign, focused on restoring opportunity, safety, and strength across Virginia.

With a legacy rooted in service and a future focused on solutions, Winsome Earle-Sears is ready to lead the Commonwealth forward. Now is the time for us to come together, unite around our shared values, and move Virginia forward together toward a brighter, stronger future for all.

Earle-Sears raises more in first quarter than any Republican gubernatorial candidate in Virginia History

Richmond, VA – The Winsome Earle-Sears for governor campaign today announced a record-setting fundraising haul for the election year’s first-quarter reporting period, raising over $3.1 million –– more than any Republican gubernatorial candidate in Virginia history. The feat is made even more impressive when contextualized by the compressed, five-week period Earle-Sears was allowed to fundraise following a nearly two-month required fundraising blackout period during the General Assembly’s legislative session. The unprecedented support underscores the growing strength and continued momentum behind Earle-Sears’s candidacy and her vision for the future of Virginia.

“Our campaign is proudly fueled by hardworking Virginians who want a leader who will cut taxes, defend parental rights, and keep our communities safe,” said Winsome Earle-Sears. “The threat of radical change that would turn our Commonwealth in the wrong direction is real and demands we fight back directly and aggressively. These record-breaking investments speak volumes about the enthusiasm to do just that and position us to both compete and win in November.”

Earle-Sears earned over 17,000 donations from across the Commonwealth and supporters of common-sense policies from across the country. This milestone continues to carve a decisive path to victory for Earle-Sears in November. With these record-breaking resources, the campaign is well-equipped to expand voter outreach and, ultimately, voter turnout.

Virginia Senate Democrats voted to block SB 746, choosing to protect drug dealers from felony homicide charges.

Richmond, VA – In a stunning display of misplaced priorities, Virginia Senate Democrats today voted unanimously to oppose SB 746, legislation that would have held drug dealers accountable when their illicit actions directly lead to the death of another person. SB 746, which classifies the unlawful distribution or manufacturing of Schedule I or II drugs resulting in death as felony homicide, is a common-sense measure to combat the deadly fentanyl crisis and give law enforcement the tools they need to prosecute those fueling this epidemic. Unsurprisingly, Democrat nominee for governor Abigail Spanberger stands in silence as her liberal allies in the General Assembly put drug dealers ahead of justice for victims and their families.

“Treating criminals like criminals is common sense –– unless, apparently, you’re a Democrat in the Virginia state Senate,” said Press Secretary Peyton Vogel. “Their failure to give law enforcement and their partners in the justice system the tools they need to prosecute drug dealers who callously steal innocent lives should frighten every Virginian at the prospect of Abigail Spanberger winning the governor’s race and bringing Democrats’ liberal agenda to life. The people of Virginia deserve leaders who will fight to keep them safe, not legislators who side with criminals.”

Senate Republican Leader Ryan McDougal condemned the vote, emphasizing that public safety should never be a partisan issue.

“Virginia families are losing loved ones every day to fentanyl, yet Democrats have chosen to protect the criminals and drug dealers rather than deliver justice for victims,” said McDougal. “That’s just plain wrong. The stakes could not be higher, and we will not stop fighting to enact tough-on-crime policies that hold criminals accountable and protect our communities from the monsters that fuel this deadly epidemic.”

Law enforcement officials across Virginia have been sounding the alarm on the rise in fentanyl-related deaths and the urgent need for stronger penalties against dealers knowingly distributing lethal substances.

“The men and women on the frontlines of this crisis need every tool available to stop the flow of deadly drugs into our communities,” Greene County Sheriff Steven Smith said. “This bill would have provided a critical deterrent, but Senate Democrats chose to ignore the devastating impact this crisis is having on families across Virginia. This is a failure of leadership.”

“Fentanyl is killing Virginians at an alarming rate, and those responsible must be held accountable,” said Shenandoah County Sheriff Timothy Carter. “Law enforcement officers are fighting every day to save lives, but when the General Assembly refuses to give us the means to prosecute these cases properly, it makes our job that much harder. This was an opportunity to stand up for victims and their families, and Democrats failed them.”

With overdose deaths reaching record highs, this vote is a stark reminder that the choice in the upcoming election is clear: stand with law enforcement and victims, or stand with criminals. The people of Virginia deserve leadership that prioritizes public safety and justice, not politicians who enable lawlessness.

RICHMOND, VA – The Winsome Earle-Sears for governor campaign today launched a new, hard-hitting video detailing Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger’s destructive record while in Washington. The ad spotlights Spanberger’s extensive record of siding with Washington liberals over hardworking Virginians and failing to deliver on critical issues like public safety and economic stability. As a result, America suffered. If Spanberger is elected governor, Virginia will fall victim to the same fate.

“Abigail Spanberger wasn’t just complicit in the destruction of America under Joe Biden –– she was a proud champion of the leftist agenda that tanked our economy, triggered a wave of violent crime, and dramatically diminished our standing in the world,” said Press Secretary Peyton Vogel. “The radical change in leadership that Spanberger’s candidacy represents would inflict severe harm in Virginian’s lives and turn our Commonwealth backwards.”

The ad underscores Spanberger’s support for reckless spending that has contributed to skyrocketing inflation, her weak stance on crime that has left communities vulnerable, and her alignment with radical policies. In contrast, Earle-Sears is running on a platform of economic prosperity, safer streets, and common sense.

Winsome Earle-Sears Strongly Positioned to Become Virginia’s First Female Governor and the Nation’s First Black Female Governor

Richmond, VA — Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears today officially secured her place on the ballot for the 2025 Virginia gubernatorial election. When she is elected, Earle-Sears will make history as Virginia’s first female governor and the first Black woman to serve as governor in United States history. Her campaign has demonstrated overwhelming strength, securing nearly 20,000 signatures statewide while earning a broad coalition of endorsements from conservative leaders, law enforcement officials, and grassroots organizations across Virginia.

“I want to thank the tens of thousands of Virginians who want to keep common sense in the Commonwealth,” said Earle-Sears. “With their support, we will win this race. Today just reaffirms that we have got what it takes to make that happen. I am committed to leading our Commonwealth with integrity, vision, and a steadfast dedication to the values that make Virginia exceptional.”

Earle-Sears, who made history in 2021 as Virginia’s first female Lieutenant Governor and the first woman of color to hold statewide office, is running a campaign powered by momentum and a clear contrast with Abigail Spanberger. While Spanberger has championed the failed policies of Biden’s Washington—weakening public safety, driving up costs, and leaving Virginians behind—Earle-Sears has been fighting for Virginia. With the support of Virginians who are ready for real leadership, she is building unstoppable momentum toward victory in November.

Throughout her career, Earle-Sears has been a trailblazer. In 2001, she became the first Jamaican-born female Republican elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 90th district. Her tenure was marked by advocacy for veterans, educational reform, and economic development.

As Lieutenant Governor, Earle-Sears presides over the Virginia Senate, where she has championed policies aimed at reducing regulatory burdens, enhancing school choice, and supporting law enforcement. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing legislation that aligns with the aspirations of all Virginia’s citizens. Earle-Sears’s candidacy has garnered widespread support from community leaders, business owners, and grassroots organizations across the Commonwealth.

The 2025 gubernatorial election is set for November 4, 2025. Earle-Sears’ historic candidacy positions her as a formidable contender, reflecting the dynamic and evolving political landscape of Virginia.

Winsome Earle-Sears Stands with President Trump Against Liberal Extremism in Powerful New Video

Richmond, VA – Following President Trump’s joint address, where he outlined ushering in an era of commonsense leadership, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears is following his lead to bring that vision to Virginia. Earle-Sears’ new video ‘Parade of Horribles’ calls out the Democrats in Richmond for blocking practical solutions and putting woke ideology ahead of the people. She is standing up against the madness and fighting for the values that matter to hardworking Virginians.

President Donald Trump is fighting tirelessly to protect Americans from out-of-touch policies. Winsome Earle-Sears stands alongside him, defending Virginia from the potential dangers of becoming the next New York or Maryland but the threat remains very real. During her time in Congress, Abigail Spanberger supported the same radical agenda, and now, Winsome Earle-Sears is the only defense against the tide of leftist ideas threatening Virginians. The compelling new video showcased her fight against the far-left policies being pushed by Democrats this past session.

“For too long, Democrats have prioritized extreme liberal policies over the real needs of Virginians,” said Winsome Earle-Sears. They have blocked tax relief, championed radical agendas, and turned their backs on hardworking families. I stand proudly with President Trump in the fight to restore commonsense.”

As a Marine, businesswoman, and proven conservative fighter, Earle-Sears continues to be a fearless voice for Virginians. With momentum building, this latest campaign video is a rallying call for voters to stand with Winsome Earle-Sears and President Trump in rejecting the failed policies of the left and embracing a future rooted in commonsense and American values.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 26, 2025

Peyton Vogel
(858) 768-1228
[email protected]

Virginia General Assembly Republicans stand in support of Earle-Sears’s leadership in Virginia, warn of Spanberger’s record in Washington

Richmond, VA – More than 50 Virginia Republican leaders today announced their emphatic endorsements of Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears in her historic campaign for governor. The outpouring of support from Republicans adds to the scores of Virginia leaders from whom Earle-Sears already earned endorsements, including Republicans in Virginia’s Senate and House of Delegates, more than 50 sheriffs from across the Commonwealth, as well as dozens of Commonwealth’s Attorneys and members of Virginia’s clergy.

“I am honored to have the support of so many dedicated leaders in our community who share my commitment to protecting our freedoms, growing our economy, and ensuring that every Virginian has the opportunity to succeed,” said Earle-Sears. “Together, we will build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Commonwealth.”

As Virginia’s future hinges on the choices we make this fall, there’s no doubt in my mind that Winsome Sears is the leader we need. We’ve taken great strides forward under the Youngkin-Sears Administration, improving the lives of Virginians through common-sense policies that prioritize safety, opportunity, and prosperity. As we look to the future, we know that her leadership will continue to push Virginia forward, making it a place where every Virginian can thrive. I’m proud to endorse Winsome Sears for Governor.” – Delegate Todd Gilbert

“Winsome Sears is a strong, principled leader in the Senate; she fights for conservative values and delivers results for Virginians. From championing policies that grow our economy to supporting law enforcement, she has never backed down. I know she will continue to fight for Virginians as the next Governor of this great Commonwealth. Winsome’s leadership is exactly what we need to keep Virginia on the right track, and I’m proud to stand with her.” – Senator Ryan McDougle

“Winsome is a Marine veteran, small-business advocate, and fearless conservative who knows how to win. She has been an invaluable partner in delivering meaningful results for hardworking Virginians –– keeping the cost of living reasonable, communities safe, and parents fully involved in their children’s educations. I am proud to support Winsome’s campaign and look forward to her historic victory in November.” – Senator Mark Obenshain

“Winsome Sears is a proven conservative leader who gets results. From fighting for lower taxes and fewer regulations to standing up for law enforcement, she has never wavered in her commitment to Virginia’s values. While the left pushes policies that weaken our economy and freedoms, Winsome is working to protect them. I’m proud to stand with her because I know she’ll always fight for the people of Virginia.” – Delegate Nick Freitas

“Winsome Sears has been a steadfast advocate for Southwest Virginia, fighting for jobs, energy independence, and economic opportunity in every corner of our Commonwealth. She understands the challenges our communities face and has delivered real conservative results that make a difference. Virginia needs her leadership now more than ever, and I’m proud to stand with her.” – Delegate Terry Kilgore

Winsome Sears, a Marine veteran and proven conservative leader, has built a reputation for fighting for Virginians—championing policies that strengthen the economy, uphold parental rights in education, and support law enforcement. The wave of endorsements from elected officials across the state reflects confidence in her ability to deliver results and lead Virginia forward.

Elected officials endorsing Sears represent a broad coalition of leaders who recognize her proven track record and ability to unify Virginians around conservative principles. This overwhelming support confirms the momentum behind her campaign as she continues to engage voters.

FULL LIST OF ENDORSEMENTS:

SENATORS

DELEGATES

• Ian Lovejoy
• Geary Higgins
• Delores Oates
• Bill Wiley
• Todd Gilbert
• Tony Wilt
• Chris Runion
• Ellen Campbell
• Terry Austin
• Will Davis
• Joseph McNamara
• Chris Obenshain
• Jason Ballard
• Will Morefield
• Israel O’Quinn
• Terry Kilgore
• Jonathan Arnold
• Wren Williams
• Eric Phillips
• Daniel Marshall
• Tommy Wright
• Eric Zehr
• Wendell Walker
• Tim Griffin
• Scott Wyatt
• Michael Webert
• Nick Freitas
• Phillip Scott
• Robert Orrock
• Hillary Pugh Kent
• Chad Green
• Mark Early
• Mike Cherry
• Otto Wachsmann
• A.C Cordoza
• Anne Ferrell Tate

Endorsed by Maggie’s List, Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears strengthens her commitment to a prosperous, conservative future for Virginia.

Richmond, VA — Maggie’s List, a federal political action committee focused on electing conservative women to federal and statewide executive offices, announced it’s endorsement of Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears in her 2025 campaign for Governor of Virginia.

“I am deeply honored to have earned the support of Maggie’s List,” said Lt. Governor Earle-Sears. “Together, we are dedicated to advancing conservative values and fostering strong leadership. We share a common vision for a prosperous, secure future for our state, and I am proud to stand alongside you in championing policies that protect our families, uphold our freedoms, and preserve our way of life.”

A native of Kingston, Jamaica, Lt. Governor Earle-Sears immigrated to the United States at the age of six. She proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps and made history as the first female Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and the first Black woman to hold statewide office in the Commonwealth.

Maggie’s List first endorsed Earle-Sears during her successful run for Lieutenant Governor in 2021, and today’s endorsement marks Maggie’s List’s first since the 2024 campaign cycle.

“Virginians need a leader who will prioritize economic growth, and Lt. Governor Earle-Sears has proven herself to be someone who knows what it takes, and has what it takes, to help Virginians thrive,” said Maggie’s List Virginia Chairwoman Ashley Abplanalp. “Her pro-business policies, military service, and charitable work make her the obvious choice for those who care about improving the lives of all of our residents regardless of background. And personally, what I admire most about Lt. Governor Earle-Sears is her relatability to everyday Virginians. She has such a sincere ability to connect to anyone, regardless of the ‘walk’ in life they’re leading, and she genuinely wants all Virginians to prosper. We know that they will prosper if they elect Lt. Governor Earle-Sears as the next Virginia governor.”

Lt. Governor Earle-Sears made history in 2002 as the first Republican to be elected to a majority-Black House of Delegates district since 1865. Now as Lieutenant Governor, she presides over the Virginia Senate when in session. Additionally, she has served on the Virginia State Board of Education, the U.S. Census Bureau, the African American Committee, and the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Before entering politics, Lt. Governor Earle-Sears worked as a program manager for the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce and as a VISTA volunteer. She is also a trained electrician and successful businesswoman. But what she is most proud of is her community work leading a men’s prison ministry and a women’s homeless shelter.

Background: Maggie’s List Endorsement

Maggie’s List is a federal political action committee (PAC) created to raise awareness and funds to increase the number of conservative women elected to federal public office and statewide executive office. Since 2010, this group of dedicated women has had an outstanding record of endorsing successful candidates for the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and other legislative bodies. More information about Maggie’s List can be found at maggieslist.org.