Hashmi Tops Fundraising in Virginia Lt. Gov. Race Ahead of Primary

RICHMOND, Va. — Senator Ghazala Hashmi, a Democrat from Chesterfield, emerged as the leading fundraiser among candidates for Virginia’s lieutenant governor, raising $742,841 in the weeks leading up to the June 17 primary. Hashmi’s efforts come as six Democrats vie for the nomination to challenge Republican John Reid in the general election.

Following Hashmi in fundraising totals is former Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, who raised $702,234, and Senator Aaron Rouse from Virginia Beach, who collected $660,180. Other candidates include Babur Lateef, who raised $374,463, and Victor Salgado, who reported $16,772. Labor leader Alex Bastani contributed $139,750 from his own funds and raised an additional $2,270.

The candidate with the most substantial single donation to Hashmi’s campaign was $100,000 from Sonjia Smith, a noted Democratic donor. Additionally, Hashmi received $50,000 from Comstock Holdings, a key player in promoting a casino project in Fairfax County.

For Stoney, Dominion Energy was the largest donor, contributing $225,000. Rouse’s most significant support came from the Greater PA Carpenters union, which donated $100,000. He also received large contributions from gambling interests, including money from a Petersburg casino.

Lateef, like Stoney, relied on Dominion, which gave him $75,000. Salgado’s campaign does not accept corporate donations, sourcing funds primarily from individuals, including a notable $1,000 donation from former Delegate Dawn Adams.

On the Republican side, Reid’s leading contribution of $8,784 came from Eleina Espigh, a parents’ rights activist. Hashmi also reported the highest cash reserves with $461,729 available as of June 5, followed closely by Rouse with $452,041.

The position of lieutenant governor, which includes presiding over the state Senate and stepping in for the governor when needed, will be determined after the Democratic primary, as Reid is unopposed for the Republican nomination.