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Wittman: Time for a more thoughtful approach to cost-cutting
As the representative for Virginia’s 1st District in Congress, I take seriously the legislative branch’s responsibility to ensure the federal government operates efficiently, effectively and in the best interests of the American people. Across party lines, there’s growing agreement: Washington must get its fiscal house in order by spending taxpayer dollars wisely while focusing on results that matter to everyday Americans. . . . To address this, we need to pursue targeted savings — not reckless cuts. That means using a scalpel, not a sledgehammer, when it comes to rightsizing the federal workforce or realigning federal spending. We must always remember the real people behind the numbers — families depending on paychecks, seniors relying on benefits, and communities counting on services.
Storm preparations are key as weather forecasting succumbs to Trump cuts
Hampton Roads residents hear every year about the importance of preparedness in advance of the Atlantic hurricane season, which begins on June 1. The region hasn’t suffered a direct hit in decades, however, so many people likely shrug off those warnings, figuring they’ll be ready when it matters. This year, with meteorologists predicting a busier-than-average season, it’s more important than ever to be storm-ready. Cuts to the National Weather Service and climate research could compromise the quality and accuracy of forecasting, putting more Americans at risk during extreme weather events. That’s a worrisome proposition as our region turns toward the tropics and awaits what may come.
Bonds and Newby: Data centers, nondisclosure agreements and democracy
Data centers evoke strong and conflicting opinions. Advocates point to the truly significant revenue they can generate for local governments. Opponents point to data centers’ enormous energy needs, climate impacts, water use and their capacity to diminish the quality of life for residents living nearby. To weigh the costs and benefits of data centers and to set the ground rules for any potential data-center development, local governments should empower members of the public with all relevant information to foster a meaningful debate. We fear, however, that the widespread use of nondisclosure agreements and a larger ethic of secrecy regarding data center development curtails this discussion and, in so doing, impairs local democracy.
Why is teacher pay at one Richmond-area school $17,100 higher than another?
Good teachers are critical to student success. Meanwhile, schools say strong salaries attract and retain strong educators. Yet teacher salaries can vary considerably across the Richmond area. For example, the average salary at Richmond’s Fairfield Court Elementary is $17,100 higher than the average teacher salary at Falling Creek Elementary in Chesterfield County. Why? A Virginia Department of Education salary survey published in March compiled average pay at schools across the state in 2024.
Gilbreath: I’ve spent over $100K on child care. I’d do it again
On Monday, May 12th, families across the country are participating in a national “Day Without Child Care” — a coordinated day of action to call attention to a crisis that too many parents, especially in Virginia, know all too well. Imagine what our lives, our communities and our economy would look like if there was no child care. For too many families, this isn’t just a thought exercise — it’s their daily reality. Seven years ago, when I told my boss I was pregnant, she gave me a piece of advice I’ll never forget: “Get on a waitlist for day care — now.” I was only eight weeks along, but I immediately put my son on a waitlist to secure a spot three months after giving birth. I thought she was exaggerating. She wasn’t.
From VPAP New Episode: The Virginia Press Room Podcast
In the latest episode of the podcast from VaNews and VPM, Michael Pope is joined by Kate Seltzer of The Virginian-Pilot, Greg Schneider of The Washington Post, and Dean Mirshahi of VPM News. They discuss the week's top headlines: Virginia Beach Republican Party Chair ousted amidst turmoil, state officials and the Nansemond Indian Nation trade accusations of Medicaid fraud, and cuts to AmeriCorps end community service grants. Tune in for insights and analysis on Virginia politics. Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts.
Gov. Youngkin tells Liberty graduates to ‘emphatically respond to God’s call’
Gov. Glenn Youngkin told Liberty University graduates gathered at Williams Stadium on Friday evening to “emphatically respond” to God’s call at the university’s 52nd commencement, the largest event ever held in Central Virginia. “While there will be a time to look to the future, today is a day to congratulate you, the proud accomplishments of the largest ever Liberty University class of 2025,” Youngkin told graduates.
Youngkin to UVA Wise grads: Find purpose
Almost 300 UVA Wise students marched Saturday to receive bachelor’s and master’s degrees and Army commissions. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin avoided mentioning policy or national politics as he gave the commencement keynote address to the college’s class of 2025. Saturday’s graduates included approximately 270 bachelor’s candidates, 24 master’s recipients and nine Army ROTC cadets receiving commissions as second lieutenants Saturday or later in the summer.
Meet the six Democrats running for Va. lieutenant governor
Six Democrats are competing for the party's nomination for lieutenant governor to join gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger on the Democratic ticket this fall. The crowded field in the June 17 primary features two state senators, a school board chairman, a former mayor, a former federal prosecutor and a longtime labor leader. Virginia's lieutenant governor has two constitutionally mandated duties — presiding over the state Senate and being first in the line of succession to governor. The lieutenant governor breaks ties on most issues in the Senate, where Democrats hold a 21-19 edge.
VCU withholding degrees of three pro-Palestine student protesters
Virginia Commonwealth University is withholding the degrees of three students who helped organize a gathering in support of Palestine on campus last month that ended in a student’s arrest. The three students [were] able to participate in graduation events [this past] weekend, but the university will not officially confer their degrees until it has resolved the disciplinary process.