RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia state Sen. Amanda Chase reversed course Friday, saying she would no longer run for governor as an independent and would instead seek the Republican nomination for the race.
Less than a week ago, Chase announced she had decided to run as an independent in protest of the state GOP’s decision to hold a convention instead of a primary to pick the Republican nominee.
She said in a livestream on Facebook Friday afternoon that she had changed her mind because she thought running as an independent would split the conservative vote and ensure a Democratic victory.
“I will not take a position that will disenfranchise Virginians who are sick and tired of Democratic rule here in Virginia,” she said.
Republicans have not won a statewide race in Virginia since 2009.
A populist who often clashes with members of her own party, Chase announced her candidacy in February.
Former GOP House Speaker Kirk Cox has also announced he’s running for governor. On the Democratic side, state Sen. Jennifer McClellan, Del. Jennifer Carroll Foy, Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax and former Gov. Terry McAuliffe have announced bids.
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