Youngkin does not rule out 2024 run, emphasizes Virginia

When asked directly Thursday night whether he is considering running for higher office, Gov. Glenn Youngkin did not officially rule out a presidential run in 2024, but said he is focused on Virginia.

“I have a big job, I love my job,” Youngkin said during a CNN Town Hall. “Thank you for hiring me, thank you for letting me come to work every day and go to work for 8.7 million Virginians. That’s what my focus is right now, and I believe there is an enormous amount of work yet to do in Virginia.”

The Republican governor, who is just over a year into his first term as governor, has raised speculation in recent months that he could be gearing up for a presidential run in 2024. After the legislative session adjourned, Youngkin traveled to New York last week to meet with GOP donors, as reported by the Washington Post.

As noted Thursday evening, Virginia allows governors to serve a maximum of two non-consecutive 4-year terms. 

Thus far, former President Donald Trump, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former Cranston, Rhode Island Mayor Steve Laffey have announced they will be seeking the Republican nomination for president in 2024.

In addition to Youngkin and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are among the names mentioned as possible Republican candidates in 2024. Earlier this week, Hogan quieted speculation after announcing he would not run for president in 2024.

Youngkin appeared Thursday night on a town hall moderated by reporter Jake Tapper where he fielded audience questions surrounding education.

This is a breaking story that will be updated.