Virginia GOP Nominee Stands Firm Amid Extortion Allegations and Infighting

The campaign for Virginia’s Republican nominee for lieutenant governor is navigating a turbulent atmosphere filled with controversy and internal strife. This issue has emerged following accusations involving Gov. Glenn Youngkin and his advisors.

Recent reports indicate a Youngkin advisor allegedly sought business from the lieutenant governor nominee mere days before purportedly attempting to extort him. This accusation adds a complex layer to the ongoing Republican infighting in the state.

John Reid Refuses to Withdraw from the Race

John Reid, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, stands resolutely against calls from Gov. Youngkin to withdraw from the race. The governor’s suggestion came in light of alleged inappropriate content Reid supposedly shared on a Tumblr account.

During a video statement released on Sunday, Reid, who identifies as gay, firmly denied ownership of the controversial Tumblr account. He has made it clear that he will not back down amidst the turmoil, asserting that the Spirit of Virginia political action committee, affiliated with Youngkin and led by Matt Moran, is attempting what he describes as extortion.

Details of the Allegations

Reid’s campaign has taken proactive steps by filing a cease-and-desist letter against Moran. In light of these allegations, Moran has submitted an affidavit stating that he never threatened or coerced Reid or his team, claiming instead that he acted in Reid’s best interests during their conversations.

Moran expressed his sentiments about their discussions, stating that he communicated as a friend and a colleague, and vehemently denied any mischaracterization of their interactions. However, an audio recording of a conversation dated April 25 raises questions about Moran’s account.

During this particular exchange, Moran reportedly suggested that if Reid were to exit the race, he would facilitate the purchase of negative research on him from America Rising, a Republican-aligned PAC. Additionally, Moran conveyed that continuing Reid’s candidacy would lead to ongoing issues.