What Is the Role of Virginia's Attorney General?
Richmond, Va. (WRIC)—In under three weeks, residents of Virginia will head to the polls to select the Democratic nominee for attorney general.
But, do you happen to know what the role of the attorney general entails in Virginia?
"Often, incumbents emphasize their role as the top law enforcement official, portraying themselves as primarily accountable for security and fighting crimes within the state," explained Richard Meagher from Randolph-Macon College's Department of Political Science to 8News.
Meagher states that it is accurate for the attorney general to investigate and prosecute certain offenses.
"So not typical crimes such as murder or theft, but rather issues like cybercrime or child pornography—these are sectors, essentially domains, where the attorney general is highly engaged in pursuing prosecutions and conducting investigations," explained Meagher.
Meagher also notes that much of their effort is focused on the civilian sector.
"If anyone files a lawsuit against the governor or the commonwealth, then the attorney general takes charge of representing the commonwealth or defending those constitutional officers in court," Meagher clarified.
Meagher further stated that the role of the attorney general includes drafting significant interpretations of state law and has the authority to contest legislation or measures implemented by the federal government.
"If you believe that Virginia’s stance should lean towards progressiveness or remain more conservative, the attorney general has the role of representing Virginia in numerous legal contexts, which can carry a distinct partisan and ideological influence," Meagher explained to 8News.
The reason there isn’t a Republican primary for attorney general is that incumbent Jason Miyares is the sole Republican candidate running for the position.
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