VIRGINIA, USA — Political newcomer Glenn Youngkin delivered a blow to Virginia democrats Tuesday night becoming the projected winner of Virginia's gubernatorial race – a contest that experts say is the first litmus test on how voters feel about Joe Biden’s presidency.
Youngkin, 54, defeated Democrat Terry McAuliffe -- who served as governor from 2014 to 2018 -- 51% to 48%, with 95% of the precincts reporting. The former business executive’s win is being touted as a democratic rebuff in the Commonwealth, which has trended blue over the past several elections. President Joe Biden won the state by 10 percentage points in 2020 against former President Donald Trump.
In a victory speech early Wednesday morning, the projected winner promised to lower taxes -- including eliminating the state's grocery tax --, reform education and "fire the entire parole board on day one."
"For too long we've been expected to shelve our dreams, shelve our hope, to settle for low expectations," Youngkin said to the crowd. "We will not be a commonwealth of low expectations! We will be a commonwealth of high expectations!"
McAuliffe conceded the race on Wednesday morning. He issued the following statement:
"While last night we came up short, I am proud that we spent this campaign fighting for the values we so deeply believe in. We must protect Virginia's great public schools and invest in our students. We must protect affordable health care coverage, raise the minimum wage faster, and expand paid leave so working families have a fighting shot. We must protect voting rights, protect a woman's right to choose, and, above all else, we must protect our democracy. While there will be setbacks along the way, I am confident that the long term path of Virginia is toward inclusion, openness and tolerance for all.
"Congratulations to Governor-Elect Glenn Youngkin on his victory. I hope Virginians will join me in wishing the best to him and his family.
"I would like to thank my wife Dorothy, my family, and my incredible campaign team for their tireless efforts and dedication over these past eleven months. And to all of my supporters across Virginia who knocked on millions of doors, made countless phone calls, and talked to their family, friends and neighbors: I am eternally grateful that you joined me on this journey to move Virginia forward.
"Serving as Virginia’s 72nd governor was the highest honor of my life, and I will never stop fighting to make our Commonwealth stronger and brighter for all."
Glenn Youngkin will be sworn in as Virginia’s next governor on Jan. 15, 2022.
WATCH: Glenn Youngkin's victory speech Tuesday, Nov. 2,2021.