Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA), who has been floated by Republican donors and voters as a potential presidential candidate, declined to talk about a 2024 bid, saying he is focusing on 2023.
Youngkin has consistently declined to rule out a 2024 run for the GOP presidential nomination and has said he is focused on winning Vigrina’s November elections, as he hopes Republicans can score a trifecta by flipping the Senate.
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“I've been really clear. I am so focused on 2023,” Youngkin said on Fox News Sunday. “It's the most important election in the nation. In my view, we have a chance to demonstrate that common sense, conservative policies can, in fact, result in great outcomes.”
Youngkin fueled presidential buzz in May when he released a campaign-style video paid for by the governor’s Spirit of Virginia PAC, talking about wanting to “usher in a new era of American values.”
When played the video, Youngkin deflected by talking about the economic and employment growth in Virginia.
“When I look at what's happened in Virginia over the last 19 months since we had the great privilege of being hired — I am so encouraged because we have all of a sudden gone from near the bottom of job growth to near the top in job growth,” Youngkin said.
Recently, Youngkin has praised Virginia's low unemployment rate and strong employment growth, touting the highest labor force participation rate since 2014.
“We've seen the largest workforce in Virginia's history,” Youngkin said. “More of Virginia is working than ever. We've reduced taxes. We've backed law enforcement, we've reestablished expectations of excellence in school and empower parents, and what gets me most excited is that yes, people around the country are noticing, and they think it's good.”
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Republicans could be seeking a backup option in 2024 as Gov. Ron DeSantis's (R-FL) campaign falters amid a reset and as former President Donald Trump faces multiple legal battles.
While speculation over his political ambitions continues, 51% of Virginia voters approve of Youngkin’s job performance, according to the latest poll from Roanoke College.