Karen Hamilton

06/23/2026

Yesterday I voted NO on the proposed state budget.

A budget illustrates what government actually prioritizes. And while no government budget is perfect, this 605 page proposal has significantly misplaced priorities.

In Virginia, legislators get a simple Yes or No vote on the entire budget. Although this one included several worthy expenditures—raises for teachers, law enforcement, and correction officers, the overall package of government expansion and a 10% increase in spending (of your hard earned money) was something I could not support.

Virginia families are getting squeezed on all sides—groceries, fuel, utilities, and everything else. Instead of offering tax relief on your daily expenses, this budget blew through the $2-3 billion surplus leftover by Governor Youngkin and gave zero help on the grocery tax, car tax, or the higher electric bills coming from policies like RGGI (carbon tax) and the Virginia Clean Economy Act.

What’s worse, is that while your family is tightening their belts and looking for extra work to make ends meet, Democrats decided to give legislators a huge pay increase. Talk about tone deaf!!

The budget also shifted money away from strengthening local sheriffs’ offices and cut millions from the School Resource Officer Grant Program—both critical for keeping our communities and schools safe.

Additionally, it failed to adequately address the rapid expansion of data centers and subsequent issues they create. This is a bipartisan priority in District 62, as our homes are threatened by massive transmission lines that devalue, divide and destroy our rural lands. Data centers continue to enjoy a sales tax break through 2035, while the new energy consumption tax on data centers is a short term measure (expiring in 2028) for a long term challenge.

Lastly, this budget buries major policy changes that should have been standalone bills, carefully examined and debated over the course of several rounds of votes. It resurrects the vetoed retail ma*****na bill, expands abortion language, removes the cap on tuition increases at our public colleges and universities, and creates a partial utility rebate instead of actually fixing the flawed policies driving up energy costs.

I was elected to be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars, restrain government overreach, defend our liberties, strengthen public safety, and stand firm on conservative principles. That’s why I voted no. Virginians deserve better. 🇺🇸

To the great people of Greene, Madison, Culpeper and Orange, thank you for giving me the honor of representing you in Richmond. Your voice matters, and I’ll continue to work hard for you!

06/20/2026

There’s a process for legislation for a reason. Public comment, stakeholder input, and the opportunity to revise and improve are all part of the arduous work of creating and amending the Code of Virginia.

The budget is not intended as a vehicle for legislation, but that’s exactly what’s proposed. Retail ma*****na was voted on, vetoed, and now is being revived through the budget process. Virginians deserve better.

06/20/2026

It was great to be with the Richardsville Volunteer Fire Department this evening at their annual banquet. The members of this squad interrupt their lives at all hours of the day and night to serve others at their time of greatest need. They don’t do it for the money—they volunteer because they love their community, and that was evident tonight.

Thank you for allowing me to join yall in an evening recognizing the valor and dedication of the selfless men and women of Richardsville Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad. God bless you all 🇺🇸

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

Early voting is underway! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 The 7th is a difficult district to flip but I believe Doug Ollivant is the one to do it and defeat Eugene Vindman. Doug was there when I won last year and I plan to help ring in his victory this November! 💪🎉

Please see my full endorsement below!⬇️

“Virginia is uniquely impacted by nearly every decision made in Washington, which is why it is critical of that we elect bold Representatives who uphold the true conservative values stated in our Virginia Republican Creed. I’m confident that Doug will do this, and put Virginians FIRST in Congress as he stands firmly with President Trump and his America First agenda.

Doug has dedicated his life to ensuring the security of our nation, and he is well equipped to defend the rights and liberties of Virginians in Washington.

I’ve watched Doug criss cross the 7th District for the last year, demonstrating his commitment and respect for every voter and every voice. I am proud to endorse Douglas Ollivant for Representative for Virginia’s 7th District and hope you will join me in supporting him for U.S. Congress.”

Delegate Karen Hamilton
(HD-62)

06/19/2026

This is an excellent article from The Piedmont Journal Recorder!

“Counties say they are being asked to absorb more costs, manage more state requirements and host more infrastructure, all while losing leverage over the decisions that shape their communities.

What happens next in Richmond will determine whether that frustration hardens into another year of conflict between state goals and local control.”

Local officials from Greene, Madison, Orange, Stafford and other counties used a regional VACO meeting in Greene County to press Richmond on land-use authority, rising utility costs, water infrastructure, mental health gaps and unfunded mandates.

06/16/2026

Important information.

06/16/2026

There continue to be headlines suggesting that "the legislature" is responsible for Virginia's ongoing budget standoff.

Democrats control the Governor's Mansion, the House of Delegates, and the State Senate. They have a governing trifecta.

The current impasse is not the result of divided government. It's the result of disagreements within the party that holds full control of state government.

Meanwhile, Virginians are left wondering whether teachers, state employees, and critical government services will be impacted if a budget agreement cannot be reached.

Virginia deserves a budget that funds core services, respects taxpayers, and provides certainty for families, schools, and local governments. It's time to get the job done.

06/16/2026

Don’t miss this chance to meet several candidates ahead of the primary this Thursday at the Orange County Republican Committee meeting!

We’re kicking things off with a social hour at 6:00 PM, come hungry and bring a dish to share!

It’s a great opportunity to connect, ask questions, and get to know the candidates before the vote. Please DM to RSVP, we’d love to see you there!