Virginia Democrats Push Big Pay Hike
Lawmakers in Virginia are facing fresh criticism this week. A budget amendment would more than double legislative pay. It comes as Democrats in Richmond pursue a slate of tax increases and new levies.
The pay plan is tied to SB30. It was introduced in the state Senate by L. Louise Lucas and in the House by Vivian Edna Watts. The amendment would raise pay in both chambers by about 150%.
That math means current salaries would jump substantially. Supporters argue it helps attract diverse candidates and offsets rising costs. Opponents say it’s tone-deaf while families juggle higher bills and new taxes.
Republican critics have been blunt. “They ran on ‘affordability,’ but all they’ve done is introduce insane left-wing policies and take from your pocket to line their own. TOTAL CON JOB!”
State Republicans also posted reactions on social media, highlighting the timing and optics. Comments from figures like Jen Kiggans and Erik Telford amplified the story. Some called the move predictable. Others said it proves the need for voter pushback.
Here are the social links tied to the coverage. They are included verbatim per reporting guidelines:
Absolutely astounding.
Virginia Democrats are now trying to give themselves a PAY RAISE after proposing thousands of dollars in new taxes hammering working families.
They ran on “affordability,” but all they’ve done is introduce insane left-wing policies and take from your… pic.twitter.com/hr0ychancV
— VA Senate GOP (@VASenateGOP) January 24, 2026
Virginia democrats in a Nutshell
1. Campaign on 'Affordability'
2. Increase existing Taxes
3. Make entirely new Taxes
4. Give ourselves a 150% Raise https://t.co/ni0lwKvllL— Jen Kiggans (@JenKiggans) January 26, 2026
Virginia Democrats propose 155% pay increase for themselves. @GovernorVA seeks tax hikes for the working class to line the pockets of her ruling class cronies. pic.twitter.com/wLMEeL1AGO
— Erik Telford (@ErikTelford) January 25, 2026
Public debate is now the point. Supporters will push for the change as part of a larger budget package. Opponents will link the pay issue to proposed tax hikes and promises about affordability broken on the campaign trail.
Either way, this will likely be part of headlines through the budget session. Voters and watchdog groups will watch committee votes and floor debates closely. Expect amendments, floor speeches, and more social media takes as lawmakers move through the process.