Virginia GOP Candidate Earle-Sears Unveils Bold 'Axe the Tax' Plan for Governor Race

In a bold move that could resonate with working families across the state, Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears has rolled out her 'Axe the Tax' plan as she campaigns to succeed Gov. Glenn Youngkin in the upcoming gubernatorial race. This framework isn’t just a policy proposal; it’s a direct response to the everyday struggles of Virginians who are tired of being nickel-and-dimed by the system.

At the heart of Sears’ plan is a push to eliminate taxes on tips, a move that echoes a national proposal by President Donald Trump. From the bustling nightlife of Virginia Beach to the historic charm of Williamsburg, service industry workers—think waiters, bartenders, and hospitality staff—stand to benefit with a 0% tax rate on gratuities. It’s a recognition that a tip is a reward for hard work, not a government piggy bank.

But Sears doesn’t stop there. Her plan also takes aim at the automobile and vehicle-based property taxes that burden residents in a state where owning a car isn’t a luxury, but a necessity for most. With 27 states imposing such taxes, scrapping them in Virginia could set a powerful precedent. As Sears put it, working Americans shouldn’t be penalized for earning a living or driving to their jobs.

This isn’t just about cutting taxes; it’s about cutting through the noise. Sears’ approach is surgical, focusing on pain points that unite people across political divides—whether it’s a server in Roanoke or a commuter in Alexandria. She’s betting that by listening to real families and delivering targeted relief, Virginia can lead the way for the rest of the country. If successful, this could be a blueprint for how to govern in a divided landscape, proving that even in tight political margins, taxpayers can come first.