Ghazala Hashmi Takes Oath on Qur’an as Virginia’s first Muslim Lieutenant Governor
Hashmi, a Democrat and former Virginia state senator, defeated Republican John Reid in the November 2025 election to become lieutenant governor. Her victory marked a historic milestone: she is the first Muslim woman elected to statewide office in Virginia and in the United States.
Rasia Nayeem Hashmi
RICHMOND: Ghazala Firdous Hashmi was officially sworn in as the 43rd Lieutenant Governor of Virginia on January 17, 2026, placing her hand on the Qur’an during the oath of office in a ceremony at the Virginia State Capitol.
Chief Justice Cleo Powell of the Virginia Supreme Court administered the oath.
Hashmi, a Democrat and former Virginia state senator, defeated Republican John Reid in the November 2025 election to become lieutenant governor. Her victory marked a historic milestone: she is the first Muslim woman elected to statewide office in Virginia and in the United States.
Born in Hyderabad, India, and raised in Georgia, Hashmi has a long background in education and public service, including nearly three decades as a college professor before entering politics.
Her swearing-in comes alongside Governor Abigail Spanberger, who was also sworn in on January 17, 2026, becoming Virginia’s first female governor.
Addressing attendees after the ceremony, Hashmi expressed gratitude to voters and stated her commitment to serving all Virginians. The inauguration was attended by elected officials, family members, and invited guests and marked the beginning of her term as lieutenant governor.
The ceremony proceeded as part of the scheduled inauguration events for Virginia’s newly elected state leadership.
Her Facebook post reads, “Today, I was incredibly honored to take my Oath of Office as the 43rd Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. I look forward to working alongside our Governor and administration to build a Commonwealth focused on affordability, opportunity, dignity, and justice.”
