Jason Miyares, born on February 11, 1976, in Greensboro, North Carolina, has established a notable career in Virginia politics, culminating in his current role as the 48th Attorney General of Virginia. As the son of a Cuban refugee, Miyares’ personal history has significantly influenced his political trajectory and policy perspectives.
Political Career Path to Attorney General
Miyares’ journey into politics began after he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from James Madison University and a Juris Doctor from the College of William & Mary Law School. He served as an assistant commonwealth’s attorney in Virginia Beach, where he collaborated closely with law enforcement to uphold community safety.
Political Career Path to Attorney General
Miyares’ journey into politics began after he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from James Madison University and a Juris Doctor from the College of William & Mary Law School. He served as an assistant commonwealth’s attorney in Virginia Beach, where he collaborated closely with law enforcement to uphold community safety.
In 2021, Miyares sought the office of Attorney General of Virginia. He secured the Republican nomination and challenged the incumbent, Mark Herring. Emphasizing issues like public safety and crime reduction, Miyares won the election, becoming the first Hispanic and Cuban American to hold statewide office in Virginia.
Approach to Lowering Crime
As Attorney General, Miyares has prioritized public safety and crime reduction. He launched initiatives such as Operation Ceasefire, targeting gun violence in 13 cities with high rates of such incidents. This program combines rigorous prosecution of violent offenders with community prevention efforts. Reports indicate that in its first year, Operation Ceasefire contributed to a decline in violent crime in several targeted cities, with Norfolk experiencing a significant reduction in homicides.
Miyares has also addressed the opioid crisis, securing substantial settlements from pharmaceutical companies. Under his leadership, Virginia obtained over $1 billion in opioid settlements, which are allocated toward addiction treatment and recovery services.
Mindset on Social Justice Issues
Miyares’ stance on social justice issues reflects a balance between reform and public safety. He has opposed the elimination of qualified immunity for law enforcement officers, expressing concerns about potential impacts on effective policing. However, he has also taken steps to address misconduct within law enforcement. For instance, his office reached a settlement with the Town of Windsor over allegations of discriminatory policing practices, mandating independent reviews of use-of-force incidents and requiring the police department to obtain accreditation from the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission.
In the realm of criminal justice reform, Miyares has initiated programs to assist formerly incarcerated individuals in reintegrating into society. He launched job fairs aimed at connecting these individuals with employers, emphasizing the importance of providing second chances and reducing recidivism through gainful employment.
Record on Illegal Immigration
Miyares has maintained a firm stance on illegal immigration, particularly concerning individuals with criminal records. He has advocated for robust cooperation between state and local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities. In a 2024 opinion, he asserted that Virginia law enforcement has both the authority and a moral duty to cooperate with federal immigration orders to the fullest extent. He criticized jurisdictions that refuse to collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating, “To those who refuse to cooperate with ICE: Shame on you.”
Miyares has also supported policies to enhance state-level involvement in immigration enforcement. He endorsed Governor Glenn Youngkin’s executive order directing state law enforcement to assist federal immigration authorities, particularly in cases involving violent criminal illegal immigrants. This order aims to deputize Virginia State Police to support federal efforts in removing dangerous individuals from communities.
In a recent case highlighting his stance, Miyares condemned the handling of an illegal immigrant with a lengthy criminal history who was charged with rape in Virginia. He criticized local officials for not cooperating with ICE and called for the resignation of the county’s Commonwealth Attorney, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement to protect public safety.
Throughout his career, Jason Miyares has demonstrated a commitment to public safety, a nuanced approach to social justice, and a stringent stance on illegal immigration, all influenced by his personal background and experiences.