Virginia Politics: book bans and (lack of) election competition, plus reflections on Trump at six months

Virginia Politics: book bans and (lack of) election competition, plus reflections on Trump at six months. This week, Chris and Andy look at a recent report covered in the Cardinal News regarding book removals from Virginia school libraries and the broader issue of book bans in educational settings, emphasizing the importance of diverse literature and local decision-making. The report reveals that while most school systems in Virginia didn't remove any books, 223 different books were removed statewide over the past five years. Five counties, led by Hanover County with 125 removals, accounted for 75% of all book removals. In contrast, 63% of school systems, including Fairfax County, removed no books at all. They also examined the state of electoral competition in Virginia's upcoming elections, noting the lack of independent candidates and the need for ballot access reform to increase political choices. The discussion concluded with some thoughts on the Trump Presidency at six months and concerns about political division and partisanship, while maintaining hope for a better future. Hat tips to Cardinal News and VPAP. Relevant links to today’s episode:Va. was the only state to see unemployment rise in JuneCardinal News: Serving Southwest and Southside Virginia223 book titles pulled from school library shelves in Virginia, but 75% were in just 5 placesElection? What election? Most of our local offices are unopposed this yearVPAP VA elections:Spanberger has more than three times as much cash as Earle-Sears in what might be unprecedented financial advantageYoungkin: It’s not too late for Earle-Sears to winDNC pours large donation into Virginia’s high-stakes electionsReid breaks with Earle-Sears, would repeal Virginia gay marriage ban Spanberger extends financial advantage over Earle-SearsEarle-Sears shakes up campaign for Virginia governor as fundraising, polls lag  Virginia & Other News:Virginia to Use Agentic AI to Power Review of RegulationsDemocrats in Southeast Virginia Endorse “Pro-Trump, Pro-ICE” Sheriff We’re all over Bluesky!CLPVA on Bluesky: @clpvirginia.orgLiberal Party USA on Bluesky: @liberalpartyusa.bsky.socialBrian on Bluesky: @biodoss.bsky.socialChris on Bluesky: @frashure.bsky.socialAndy on Bluesky: @andyjabbour.bsky.social More:Classical Liberal Party of Virginia Open markets. Open minds. Free people. https://clpvirginia.orgLiberal Party USA: ⁠https://www.liberalpartyusa.org⁠Facebook: Classical Liberal Party of VirginiaInstagram: classicalliberalpartyvaX, formerly Twitter: @clpvirginiaChris Frashure: The Open ModeAndy’s Substack: America’s Awesome