By Shirleen Guerra | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – Two Democratic delegates from central Virginia are running to fill the state Senate seat being vacated by L. Gov.-elect Ghazala Hashmi.
Hashmi won the Nov. 4 lieutenant governor race with 55% of the vote over Republican John Reid. Her election creates a vacancy in Senate District 15, which covers most of Chesterfield County and part of Richmond.
Del. Mike Jones of Richmond announced his campaign Thursday. Jones, who previously served as Richmond City Council president, said in his announcement, “Election Night, Virginians spoke overwhelmingly that they are tired and frustrated with President Trump and Republican policies.”
Jones said Virginians showed they want “bold, progressive leadership and to send a clear message to Washington that Virginia stands firm in protecting our democracy while also supporting and helping families…They want strong, progressive, compassionate, energetic leadership to move Virginia forward.”
Del. Debra Gardner of Chesterfield County also entered the race.
“As your next State Senator I’ll keep fighting for everyone to have the opportunity for a better future. I’m excited to work with Gov.-Elect Spanberger to move Virginia forward and protect our narrow Senate majority,” said Gardner.
Gardner said she has the support of several Democratic delegates, community leaders and organizers.
Hashmi won reelection in the district in 2023 with 62% of the vote against Republican Hayden Fisher, according to Ballotpedia.
Voter turnout for the November 2025 election was 53.8% statewide, according to VPAP. Chesterfield and Henrico counties reported turnout slightly above that average, while Richmond City was below it. The special election date has not been announced but is expected before the 2026 General Assembly session begins.