West’s Appointment Faces Opposition
The Virginia Senate Committee has rejected Governor Youngkin’s appointment of Angela West to the State Parole Board. West’s appointment had been announced in September, but Democrats raised concerns about her past rhetoric, including social media posts. The committee’s decision now moves to the full Senate, where Democrats hold a narrow majority.
Shipley’s Appointment Also Rejected
In addition to West’s rejection, the committee also voted against Garren Shipley’s appointment to the Board for the Blind and Vision Impaired. Shipley, the communications director for House Republican Leader Todd Gilbert, sought the position due to his family’s personal experience with vision impairment. However, “caucus concerns” were cited as the reason for rejecting his appointment.
Reactions and Next Steps
Angela West could not be reached for comment, and Governor Youngkin’s press office has yet to respond to the committee’s decision. The resolution will now proceed to the full Senate, where further attempts may be made to restore West and Shipley to their respective appointments.
A Divided Senate
With Democrats holding a narrow majority in the Senate, the fate of these appointments hangs in the balance. The outcome of the upcoming vote will determine whether West and Shipley will assume their roles or if alternative candidates will be considered. This decision highlights the political divide within Virginia’s government and the challenges Governor Youngkin may face in securing his appointees’ positions.