Lt. Governor Ghazala Hashmi

Over the next few days, Muslims across the Commonwealth and around the world celebrate the conclusion of Ramadan, a month rooted in faith, compassion, and service to others. May this Eid bring peace, joy, and togetherness to all who are celebrating. Eid Mubarak!

Wishing a happy 101st birthday to Dr. William “Fergie” Reid, a civil rights trailblazer and the first African-American elected to Virginia’s General Assembly since Reconstruction. We are grateful for his enduring legacy and leadership.

Severe weather is moving through parts of the Commonwealth today. Stay alert, monitor local updates, and follow guidance from emergency officials.

As the General Assembly adjourns sine die, I thank the members of the Senate and House for their dedication during the 2026 legislative session. It’s been an honor to preside over the Senate as we worked to support Virginia’s families and strengthen our Commonwealth.

The attack on Michigan’s Temple Israel yesterday was devastating. No house of worship should be a target for violence or bigotry, and antisemitism has no place in America. I’m relieved the children are safe, and my thoughts are with the injured guard and families.

Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Shah, a Staunton native & proud Old Dominion University alumnus, served as an ROTC instructor, Department Chair, & Professor of Military Science at ODU. I am heartbroken by his loss in yesterday’s tragic shooting. My prayers are with his family.

My thoughts are with the Old Dominion University community, as they grapple with an on-campus shooting that left two individuals in critical condition. We are grateful to the first responders and campus officials on scene.

Thank you to the organizers who invited me to speak at today’s Stand Up for Science rally. At a time of climate threats and rising misinformation, we must protect public health, act on the evidence, and put science back at the center of policymaking.

Early voting for Virginia’s congressional redistricting referendum begins today and runs through April 18. Virginians can make their plan to vote YES at iwillvote.com/VA

Thank you to the Democratic Latino Organization of Virginia for the opportunity to speak at your 2nd Legislative Day. I remain committed to standing with all Virginians and ensuring every person feels safe and welcome.

Thanks to the Virginia Rural Center for a discussion on economic opportunity and rural infrastructure. Honored to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Senator Frank Ruff Center for Rural Virginia and to work with our Board, Rural Leadership Institute alumni, and stakeholders.

For the final week of Black History Month, we’re honoring two of Virginia’s esteemed women in public service: Secretary Traci Deshazor and Chief Justice Cleo Powell.

I was delighted to celebrate with the outstanding students recognized by the Organization of Chinese Americans’ Central Virginia Chapter at their Lunar New Year Spring Festival. Their scholarly achievement and dedication to their communities represent the very best of Virginia.

I so enjoyed connecting with students from the Virginia Community College System and Chancellor David Doré for VCCS Advocacy Day. After teaching at Virginia’s community colleges for decades, I know firsthand the power of these institutions to shape leaders and change lives.

May those who are observing Ramadan be strengthened in spirit, sustained with patience in moments of hunger and thirst, and surrounded by peace. May this holy month deepen our shared commitment to compassion, service, and care for those in need.

For the third week of Black History Month, we’re honoring two of Virginia’s esteemed scientists: Dr. Margaret Ellen Mayo Tolbert and Dr. Christine Mann Darden.

Wishing a joyful Lunar New Year to everyone celebrating across our Commonwealth. May this new year be filled with peace, good fortune, and time with loved ones.

It was an honor to speak alongside Chief Stephen Adkins of the Chickahominy Tribe at the Library of Virginia. As stewards of Virginia’s history, our museums honor the people and moments whose contributions have defined the social and cultural fabric of the Commonwealth.