Jason Patel for Virginia

“Good afternoon, everyone! Thank you for coming out today. It’s great to be here in this incredible community. I’m Jason Patel, and I’m running to be your next Governor of Virginia. Today, I want to talk about what we can achieve together — a future built not on party politics, but on common sense and progress that works for all Virginians.

Look, I know that we live in polarized times. Every day we’re confronted with extreme rhetoric and divisive politics. But the truth is, most of us are somewhere in the middle. We just want our state to move forward, to make decisions based on what actually works, not on ideology. That’s why I’m running — to be a Governor who listens, who learns, and who leads with pragmatism and vision.

Let’s start with the economy. I’ve spent my career building businesses that didn’t just create jobs; they created opportunities. Virginia is full of talent and potential. We have thriving cities, growing suburbs, and hardworking rural communities. But the world is changing, and we need to prepare our workforce for the future. As Governor, I will work to bring more high-paying jobs to Virginia by investing in our tech sector, renewable energy, and infrastructure. I’ll implement job training programs that provide real skills for real jobs — because when we empower people with the tools to succeed, our entire state benefits.

Education is another priority. Right now, we have one of the most diverse and capable student populations in the country, but not every child has the same opportunities. I want to change that. I will make universal broadband access a reality, so every student, whether they live in urban Richmond or rural Southwest Virginia, has access to online resources and modern learning tools. I’ll work to strengthen our schools, support our teachers, and ensure our students are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow — not just the jobs of today.

On healthcare, we need a balanced approach that respects individual choice while ensuring access for all. I believe in protecting reproductive rights because personal healthcare decisions should remain just that — personal. But more than that, we need to address the root causes of health disparities in our communities. I will expand Medicaid, invest in mental health services, and make sure that every Virginian has access to affordable, quality healthcare. It’s not about left versus right; it’s about the right thing to do.

Let’s also talk about public safety. I grew up around responsible gun owners, and I support the Second Amendment. At the same time, we need to confront the reality of gun violence in our communities. It’s not enough to argue over gun rights; we need to focus on gun safety. That’s why I support common-sense measures like background checks and red flag laws to keep firearms out of the hands of those who pose a danger to themselves or others. Responsible gun ownership and community safety can go hand-in-hand — we can protect our rights and our families at the same time.

On energy, my opponent and I have some things in common. Virginia should be a leader in nuclear energy, and it’s a critical part of our energy future. But I don’t think we should stop there. I believe in an all-of-the-above energy approach. Let’s invest in solar, wind, and green technologies alongside nuclear power. Let’s create thousands of high-paying jobs while ensuring that we build a sustainable, independent energy future for Virginia. We can have a strong economy and protect our environment — they’re not mutually exclusive.

Finally, we need to focus on real solutions to real problems. I know my opponent, Rosa Brennan, has made her stance clear on a number of issues. While we may not agree on everything, I believe that what unites us as Virginians is stronger than what divides us. Most people want safe communities, good schools, access to healthcare, and a government that respects their rights and their privacy. My campaign is about bringing people together to find common ground and move Virginia forward. It’s about creating a state that works for all of us, no matter our background or our politics.

I’m asking for your support, not because I have all the answers, but because I believe that together, we can find them. I believe that the solutions to our most pressing issues come from listening to each other, from bringing together the best ideas, and from having the courage to make tough choices. I’m ready to lead, and I’m ready to work for you. Let’s build a future where Virginia is a place of opportunity, of innovation, and of fairness.

Thank you, and let’s get to work!”