NORFOLK, Va. — Just hours before the vote-counting process begins across Virginia, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin spoke with 13News Now and weighed in on the importance of this election and what he expects to see.
With all 140 seats of the Virginia General Assembly up for grabs, all eyes are on Virginia this election. One or both chambers could flip party control this election, which could have a major impact on not only party control of the state but also state policy regarding issues like abortion, education, and gun control.
"I believe that Virginians have a lot riding on this election," Youngkin said, adding that there are a number of issues the new legislature will need to tackle. The rising cost of living, improving education, and bolstering law enforcement are among those concerns.
"I'm excited by the fact that people around the country are watching what's happening in Virginia and celebrating the great moves that we have made," the governor said.
Youngkin said he anticipates several tight races that will push the counting process into Wednesday, meaning the winners for some district races won't be known on election night.
"There's gonna be a lot of close races, and I expect a lot of these races won't be determined tonight," he explained. "They're going to be very, very close. And I know our election teams are going to be working around the clock to count votes as accurately and quickly as they can."
Early on Election Day, several polling offices experienced power outages and one electronic system issue, which officials said were quickly resolved. Despite these issues, Youngkin said the election process has "run pretty smoothly" so far, and that this election is secure and can be trusted.
The governor told 13News Now that he will be watching the returns in Richmond but expects to end up in Henrico at some point.
Stay with 13News Now for continuing coverage as we track election results across Hampton Roads.