Winsome Sears is a Jamaican-American politician, veteran, and businesswoman. She was the first African-American woman to be elected to the Virginia House of Delegates as a Republican.
In 2021, she was elected as the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, making her the first woman of color to hold this position in Virginia’s history
Early Life and Education
Winsome Sears was born on September 15, 1964, in Kingston, Jamaica. She was raised in a military family and had the opportunity to live in various parts of the world, including Germany, Panama, and the United States. She attended Old Dominion University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master of Public Administration degree.
Military Career
Sears served in the United States Marine Corps for ten years. She was the first woman to receive the Naval Achievement Medal for her outstanding service in the Persian Gulf War. She retired as a Gunnery Sergeant in 1997.
Business Career
After her retirement from the military, Sears worked in various businesses, including the hospitality industry and the defense sector. In 2006, she started her own business, a consulting firm that specializes in leadership development and strategic planning.
Political Career
Sears’ political career began in 2003 when she was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. She represented the 90th district, which covers parts of Hampton and Newport News. She was re-elected three times and served until 2009.
In 2017, Sears ran for the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia but was unsuccessful. She ran again in 2021 and won the nomination. In the general election, she defeated her Democratic opponent, Hala Ayala, with 50.65% of the votes.
Husband and Children
Winsome Sears is married to Terrence McAuliffe, who is a retired US Navy Commander. They have two children together.
Politics in Virginia
As Lieutenant Governor, Sears is responsible for presiding over the Virginia Senate and casting tie-breaking votes in the event of a tie. She is also a member of the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board, the Virginia Military Advisory Council, and the Board of Trustees of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation.
During her campaign for Lieutenant Governor, Sears focused on issues such as school choice, law and order, and economic growth. She is known for her conservative views and support for the Second Amendment.
Conclusion
Winsome Sears is a trailblazer in Virginia’s political landscape. Her military service, business career, and political experience have prepared her for the role of Lieutenant Governor. She has broken barriers as the first woman of color to hold this position in Virginia’s history. We look forward to seeing how she will continue to serve the people of Virginia.
FAQs
1. What is Winsome Sears known for?
Winsome Sears is known for being the first African-American woman to be elected to the Virginia House of Delegates as a Republican and the first woman of color to be elected as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia.
2. What is Winsome Sears’ political party?
Winsome Sears is a member of the Republican Party.
3. What is Winsome Sears’ educational background?
Winsome Sears has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master of Public Administration degree from Old Dominion University.
4. What issues did Winsome Sears focus on during her campaign for Lieutenant Governor?
Winsome Sears focused on issues such as school choice, law and order, and economic growth during her campaign for Lieutenant Governor.
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