RICHMOND, Va. — The NAACP is pushing back hard against rumors that it has endorsed a candidate in Virginia’s upcoming gubernatorial race.
The organization which promotes and defends rights and policies for black Americans today said they didn’t endorse the white woman running for govnernor, but at the same time, aren’t endorsing the black woman either, at least officially.
The organization called any such claims “categorically false,” reaffirming that it supports policies, not politicians.
NAACP Virginia State Conference President Rev. Cozy Bailey said the group’s only focus is protecting voting rights and empowering communities across the Commonwealth.
Key Points
- NAACP denies endorsing any Virginia gubernatorial candidate
- Organization emphasizes voter mobilization and policy advocacy
- State and national NAACP leaders urge participation in the November 4 election
NAACP reiterates nonpartisan mission
Rev. Bailey underscored that the Association’s priorities remain centered on issues critical to Black voters, including fair elections, affordable healthcare, and economic opportunity.
“We remain focused on the issues that matter most to our community,” Bailey said. “Every eligible voter should be able to cast a ballot freely and fairly.”
As Election Day nears, NAACP chapters across Virginia have increased grassroots efforts to engage voters through canvassing, phone banking, and educational outreach. The campaign aims to boost turnout and counter misinformation targeting Black voters.
National leaders echo message ahead of election
Dominik Whitehead, NAACP Chief of Field, Membership Growth & Unit Sustainability, said the organization’s commitment to democracy transcends political lines. “We don’t endorse candidates. We fight for civil rights,” Whitehead stated. “We’re laser-focused on getting our people to the polls to defend democracy.”
The group’s efforts are part of a national “Get Out the Vote” push designed to ensure high voter participation in key state and local elections. The NAACP is encouraging Virginians to vote on November 4 and to remind their communities of the power of civic engagement.
For more information on the NAACP’s election initiatives and democracy protection programs, residents can visit naacp.org/vote.