TJC Statement: A Dangerous Precedent for the University of Virginia

The Jefferson Council is issuing the following statement in response to Governor-elect Spanberger’s unprecedented intervention in the governance of the University of Virginia.

"This action by Governor-elect Spanberger is unprecedented in the history of the Commonwealth and represents an extraordinary abuse of executive power. Forcing the resignation of duly appointed members of the University of Virginia's Board of Visitors is not only legally questionable, it clearly represents a dangerous highly politicized power grab that is in stark contrast with University tradition and values that have been evident in each and every prior transition of gubernatorial party power. Governor Youngkin not only did not request the resignation of even one Democrat appointed Board member, his appointees allowed the Democrat appointed Rector to remain in office after they assumed a majority of the Board. This highly partisan action sets a precedent that will undoubtedly inure to the detriment of The University in the future."