Image Credit: X @SenatorHashmi
Richmond, Virginia: Ghazala Hashmi, the first Muslim elected to the Virginia State Senate, is setting her sights on another historic win as she campaigns for Lt. Governor in 2025.
Hashmi, who declared her candidacy earlier this year and secured the Democratic Party’s endorsement in June, is now focused on drumming up support and funds for the upcoming election.
If successful in the November 5th election, Hashmi will become the Lt. Governor of the Commonwealth state, two years before her second term as State Senator ends in 2028.
Hashmi’s campaign builds on a legacy of breaking barriers. In 2019, she became Virginia’s first Muslim State Senator by defeating a popular Republican incumbent and flipping the seat to give Democrats control of the State Senate.
Her latest endeavor is rooted in her dedication to public service and education, which began during her 30 years as a college educator in Virginia.
Born in Hyderabad, India, Hashmi moved to the US at age 4 and has consistently championed civil rights and community dialogue.
Her campaign has already garnered endorsements from major labor, environmental, and women’s groups, signaling strong support for her platform of “compassionate progressivism.”
“My story mirrors that of so many Americans,” Hashmi said, reflecting on her personal and professional journey.
Hashmi aims to bring change in a state currently governed by Republican Glenn Youngkin and to counter GOP policies on reproductive rights, voting access, and public schools.
If elected, Hashmi would assume a role traditionally seen as largely ceremonial, but with the power to break tie votes in the state Senate and succeed the Governor if the incumbent leaves office.
Her candidacy holds particular significance as she strives to build bridges across communities and push forward progressive values in a politically divided state.