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Virginia Judge Bars Youngkin’s Appointees From University Boards

Attorney General Jason Miyares plans to seek a stay, appealing the injunction to the Supreme Court of Virginia.

FILE - Virginia state Sen. Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, listens to debate during the Senate session at the Capitol, March 10, 2022, in Richmond, Va. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File)
FILE - Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares speaks during an interview at the Office of the Attorney General in Richmond, Va., Tuesday, May 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Ryan M. Kelly, file)
FILE - Virginia Senate President Pro Tempore, Sen. Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, recognizes a visitor in the gallery as she presides over the Senate, Jan 27, 2020, at the state Capitol in Richmond, Va. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File)
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Overview

  • Fairfax Circuit Court Judge Jonathan D. Frieden granted a request by nine Democratic senators to remove eight of Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s appointments from the University of Virginia, George Mason University and Virginia Military Institute boards.
  • The Senate Privileges and Elections Committee had rejected the appointees in June, but board chairs continued seating them after receiving guidance from Attorney General Miyares.
  • Miyares’s office requested a stay of the injunction and intends to appeal to the Supreme Court of Virginia, with motions and responses due in early August.
  • The case hinges on interpreting Virginia’s constitution, which requires General Assembly confirmation of gubernatorial board picks and whether a committee vote can take effect immediately.
  • Contested seats include former Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli II and ex-commerce secretary Caren Merrick, underscoring broader conflicts over diversity, equity and inclusion governance.