Virginia GOP feud with conservative wing spills into critical election year

With all 100 seats in the House of Delegates and three statewide offices on the ballot this year, Virginia Republicans are navigating internal disagreements that could shape the party’s strategy heading into a pivotal election cycle. Tensions between the 5th Congressional District leadership and the Republican Party of Virginia (RPV) have resurfaced, highlighting broader divisions within the state GOP.

The latest salvo in the intra-party battle came in the form of an open letter, signed by six Republican officials from the hardline conservative 5th District — including Chairman Rick Buchanan and five members of the State Central Committee.

The letter, sent to the committee last week, takes aim at the 80-member body’s Executive Committee, which, during a Dec. 8 meeting, attempted to penalize four local GOP officials by banning them from leadership roles for two years. The officials were ousted in September for refusing to sign a renewed locality pledge of loyalty to former state Sen. John McGuire, R-Goochland, the party’s congressional nominee, who went on to win the Nov. 5 election.

“As we step into a new year, it is vital to reflect on past actions, recognize missteps, and consider how we can position our party for success,” the letter reads. “Leadership requires not only vision but also wisdom — the ability to guide, not punish, and to inspire, not alienate. One recent decision by party leadership warrants serious discussion.”


https://virginiamercury.com/2025/02/19/virginia-gop-feud-with-conservative-wing-spills-into-critical-election-year/