The article centers around Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin's request for John Reid, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, to withdraw from the race. Reid is Virginia's first openly gay candidate for statewide office.
The controversy stems from explicit photos of men posted to a Tumblr account allegedly linked to Reid. Governor Youngkin's team linked the account to Reid via a similar username. The account has since been deleted, but archived versions show reposted images of male genitalia and suggestive material.
Reid vehemently denies the account's ownership, stating that it's a fabricated smear campaign targeting him due to his sexual orientation. He cites past instances of similar attacks and maintains his innocence, vowing to remain in the race. He points out that the photos don't depict him.
Youngkin's request for Reid to step down has created significant political tension. The situation remains unresolved, with the upcoming “unity rally” featuring Reid, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, and Attorney General Jason S. Miyares uncertain. Reid has accused Youngkin of demanding his withdrawal without sufficient evidence and allowing him no chance for a response. He suggests he is facing unfair scrutiny due to his sexuality.
Reid, a well-known Richmond radio host and son of a former delegate, has previously addressed anonymous online allegations of sexually explicit photos, publicly sharing family photos with his partner in an attempt to preempt such attacks.