“Hello readers! With Election Day looming, it’s your last chance to check out our voter guide for key details on Virginia’s congressional races and the ballot measures that could alter our state Constitution. If you haven’t voted yet, add it to your essential weekend reading list. - Samantha Willis, Editor-in-Chief
Virginia Mercury readers who responded to an election survey cited concerns about rising costs, healthcare access and whether congressional candidates would address their priorities. (Photo illustration by States Newsroom)
By Markus Schmidt
Rising bills, concerns about the state of democracy and frustration with both political parties are weighing on Virginia Mercury readers ahead of next week’s midterm elections, with many questioning whether the candidates can deliver the changes they want.
More than 350 readers responded to The Mercury’s online survey between Sept. 22 and Oct. 17, describing the issues that matter most to them and whether congressional candidates are paying attention.
A view of an automated license plate reader in Northern Virginia. (Photo by Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury)
By Nathaniel Cline
A Virginia prosecutor’s recent decision not to charge a police officer for sharing license plate reader data with federal authorities without authorization could spur reform efforts in the commonwealth.
Automated license plate readers, commonly used to identify vehicles and investigate crimes, have drawn criticism over privacy concerns and alleged misuse, sparked disagreement over how they’re used by authorities, and forced local governments to reconsider contracts.
The State Corporation Commission building in downtown Richmond. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury)
By Shannon Heckt
This summer, Dominion Energy rejoined the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a carbon market designed to offset carbon emissions. Former Gov. Glenn Youngkin yanked Virginia from RGGI in 2023 and in her first speech to lawmakers in January, Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced the state’s imminent return to the program, a move cemented by legislation that took effect earlier this year.
At the State Corporation Commission headquarters on Wednesday, the utility debated how to recover the cost of the carbon allowances from customers and how to implement the bill credit lawmakers allocated to offset the impact on ratepayers.
COMMENTARY
Are sales taxes the fairest way to fund improved schools? 47 localities are asking voters to decide.
By Bob Lewis
Amid lingering inflation from high fuel prices, 47 Virginia localities are about to ask their residents to vote on Tuesday for a ballot question that will make every retail purchase they make near their homes costlier.
Interesting timing to say the least. But that doesn’t make it wrong.
ICYMI
Wittman’s defense industry ties draw scrutiny as he seeks Armed Services gavel | By Markus Schmidt
Chesterfield County school board race raises questions over candidates’ experience, social stances | By Eliza Martin and Regan Huizenga
If Virginians approve reproductive rights amendment, a hearing is set for Nov. 13 to challenge it | By Charlotte Rene Woods
As living costs rise, more people need assistance to obtain abortions, Va. fund reports | By Charlotte Rene Woods
COMMENTARY: Supporting the freedom to marry for all in Virginia is a bipartisan Issue | By Denver Riggleman and Barbara Comstock
COMMENTARY: Virginia’s chief pundit predicts gloom for one party, and he fears for our collective discourse | By Roger Chesley
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