Republican Gains Signal a National Shift on Public Safety, Says Virginia AG Miyares
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares is observing a meaningful national trend: voters are increasingly prioritizing public safety and rejecting what he describes as “progressive left” policies that have, in his view, demonstrably failed. This shift, he believes, fueled recent republican victories and is shaping the landscape for future elections.
Miyares, who may challenge Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears for the governorship next year or seek reelection as AG, attributes the momentum to a growing public distrust of approaches to criminal justice reform that prioritize social work over prosecution. He recently discussed these observations as chairman of Protecting Americans Action Fund (PAAF).
A Rejection of Soft-on-Crime Policies
“It shows the public does not trust the progressive left to keep the public safe,” Miyares stated. “Progressive left policies on public safety have failed over and over again in almost every city or suburb or town they’ve been tried in.”
This sentiment, he argues, is not isolated to Virginia. It’s a nationwide recognition that certain policies simply aren’t working.
Trump’s Influence and a Clear Contrast
The election of President-elect Donald Trump played a crucial role in amplifying this message. “I think it was a clear contrast at the top of the ticket, and I think that absolutely had an impact down-ballot as well,” Miyares explained.
trump’s focus on “law and order” resonated with voters concerned about rising crime rates and a perceived lack of accountability.
Virginia as a Bellwether
Virginia’s 2021 elections – where Miyares, Earle-Sears, and Gov. Glenn Youngkin secured victories – served as a powerful indicator of this changing tide. Notably, Youngkin is term-limited and cannot run for reelection.This Republican sweep was unexpected, signaling a clear desire for change among Virginia voters.
PAAF: filling a Critical Information Gap
To capitalize on this momentum, Miyares founded PAAF in 2022, partnering with GOPAC to support and elect district attorneys committed to a tougher stance on crime. The organization aims to educate voters about the records and philosophies of local prosecutors.
This effort is particularly important given the decline of local news coverage. “It used to be the reporter be down in the courthouse covering cases when district attorneys messed up,” Miyares noted. “That’s gone.”
holding Prosecutors Accountable
PAAF focuses on highlighting instances where prosecutors offer lenient plea deals – particularly in cases involving serious crimes like child rape – or decline to prosecute entire categories of offenses.Miyares emphasizes the need to differentiate between prosecutors who view their role as upholding the law and those who see themselves primarily as social workers. “And our job is to remind voters there’s individuals that view themselves as social workers rather of prosecutors, and we’re going to hold them accountable,” he said.
The Future of Public Safety Debate
As the debate over criminal justice reform continues, miyares believes voters will increasingly demand accountability and prioritize public safety. he sees PAAF as a vital tool in ensuring that those who are entrusted with enforcing the law are held to the highest standards.
Here’s what you need to know about the broader context:
Congressional Review Act: Republicans are exploring the use of this act to overturn recent Biden administration rules. Learn more here
The Core Issue: The central question is whether a focus on rehabilitation and social services should take precedence over traditional law enforcement and prosecution.
* Your Role: As a voter, understanding the positions of your local prosecutors is crucial to ensuring your community’s safety.
Eliminating criminal justice is not criminal justice reform.
Honored to serve as Chairman of Protecting Americans Action Fund, a new group standing up to left wing liberal prosecutors who refuse to enforce the law & prioritize public safety.