Gov. Glenn Youngkin of Virginia declared on Wednesday that he is “not going anywhere” and is committed to his home state, making it clear that he will not run for president in 2024.
Even though the prospect of a late presidential bid appeared improbable due to filing deadlines and other logistical challenges, Youngkin has consistently given himself leeway in his responses to inquiries concerning the 2024 election. Still, some of his fans have been considering his candidacy for the GOP primary for a long time.
However, acting now would contradict his earlier claim that he is remaining mindful of his condition.
During a post-election press conference, Youngkin dismissed a direct question about the 2024 contest by pointing out that he is not running in the early primary states. Despite a strong Republican push for total control of Virginia state government, Youngkin expressed his disappointment with the state legislative results on Tuesday, which saw Democrats maintain control of the state Senate and flip the state House.
“This was a razor-thin set of decisions on either side in a number of these races, which underpins the reality that Virginia is a state which has historically shifted back and forth,” Youngkin stated.
Youngkin led the Virginia Republicans in a competition to seize control of the legislature for the last two years of Youngkin’s term and gain the authority to advance their proposed legislation. Among other things, a ban on abortions beyond 15 weeks of pregnancy was suggested. However, Democrats ran a vigorous anti-plan campaign and used that message to win significant swing seats.
“I do think there is a place we may come together, common ground,” Youngkin stated, adding that “abortion could be one of the most challenging subjects in Virginia and the nation.” This is challenging. I hope the conversation we’ve begun can go on.”