Gov. Glenn Youngkin visited Southwest Virginia on Wednesday, March 20, making stops in Lee County, the City of Norton, Wise County, Russell County, the Town of Richlands, Tazewell County, and the Town of Abingdon.
The governor has made a commitment to partner with the region to accelerate economic development over the next two years.
His visit was a “listening session” to hear from local leaders about issues like housing, education, and health care that all contribute to the region’s overall economic development.
He will be back in the area in the coming days and months as he and his administration identify specific projects to focus on.
“I began speaking with Governor Youngkin even before he got elected about the need for the Commonwealth to join local leaders in Southwest Virginia to accelerate growth and opportunity in our region of the state,” said state Sen. Travis Hackwork. “In January of this year, he sat across the table from me and made a firm commitment to do just that. Yesterday’s visit was amazing and really allowed Governor Youngkin to see the best of Southwest Virginia. He heard from countless community leaders about where we can invest time, effort, and resources to have a huge impact. I am extremely grateful to Governor Youngkin for keeping his word and starting what I believe will be a positive and beneficial relationship over the next two years of his administration. Our region is thankful for his time and can’t wait to welcome him back.” was elected to the Senate of Virginia in January 2021 and subsequently re-elected in 2023. He and his wife, Angel, reside in the town of Richlands.
