Press Release: Matt Moran Resigns from Youngkin’s PAC Amid GOP Controversy
Richmond, VA – Matt Moran, a key political advisor to Governor Glenn Youngkin, has stepped down as executive director of the governor’s PAC, Spirit of Virginia, a move confirmed by Youngkin on Friday. The resignation follows escalating tensions within the Virginia Republican Party linked to John Reid’s candidacy for lieutenant governor.
Youngkin noted that Moran’s ability to focus fully on the PAC’s crucial work was compromised amid the ongoing controversies. Becca Glover, previously serving as deputy chief of staff, will take over Moran’s responsibilities.
The turmoil began earlier in the week when Pat Herrity withdrew from the lieutenant governor race, leaving Reid as the sole GOP candidate. Reid, a conservative talk radio host, is notable as the first openly gay individual to run for statewide office in Virginia. Following Herrity’s exit, controversy erupted when Moran conducted opposition research on Reid, unveiling potentially damaging information via a Tumblr account.
Throughout the week, tensions mounted as reports emerged alleging that Youngkin urged Reid to withdraw, suggesting that the exposure of the findings could harm his campaign. Reid accused the PAC of coercive tactics in an X post, asserting, “These guys are openly trying to extort me!”
In the ensuing days, both Moran and Reid exchanged public statements and legal threats as the situation intensified, with Reid holding a rally to assert his commitment to campaign despite the backlash and claiming to be a unifying candidate for the GOP.
As the Virginia Republican Party seeks to unify behind its candidates, the controversy highlights ongoing challenges within the party as they prepare for upcoming elections. The attention now shifts to the broader implications of this internal strife amid Democratic opposition in the Commonwealth.
For further inquiries, contact Kate Seltzer at 757-713-7881 or via email at kate.seltzer@virginiamedia.com.
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