Virginia Senate Democrats Block Youngkin’s University Board Appointees

Richmond, VA – On February 17, 2026, the Virginia Senate, voting along party lines, rejected a series of appointments to university governing boards made by former Governor Glenn Youngkin. The move underscores ongoing tensions between Democrats and Republicans regarding control over Virginia’s public institutions of higher education.

Appointments Rejected

Among those removed from their positions were Dr. Michael Poliakoff and Carman Faison, both appointees to the Longwood University Board of Visitors. Poliakoff, president of the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA), a conservative non-profit advocating for fiscal responsibility and academic quality in higher education, similarly served on the Advisory Board for Project 2025. American Council of Trustees and Alumni Faison, a Longwood alumna and co-owner of a mattress company, was also removed.

The rejections extended beyond Longwood, impacting boards at Richard Bland College, Virginia Commonwealth University and the College of William and Mary. Virginia Mercury

Democratic Rationale

State Senator Aaron Rouse, speaking on the Senate floor, explained that even as the majority of Youngkin’s appointments were confirmed, some could not be. “We do our best to accommodate Governors…but we have a responsibility in this chamber to vet every single appointee and do our job,” Rouse stated. Virginia Mercury

This action follows a pattern of Democratic efforts to shape the composition of university boards. Governor Abigail Spanberger immediately appointed 27 members to university boards upon taking office, reshaping the political landscape of the state’s colleges and universities. Prior to Spanberger’s election, Senate Democrats had already rejected 22 of Youngkin’s appointments over the summer.

University Response

Longwood University President W. Taylor Reveley IV issued a statement acknowledging the importance of board service. “Board service…is an act of tremendous citizen leadership, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who serves and has served,” Reveley said. Virginia Mercury Rector of the Longwood Board of Visitors Ronald White did not provide a comment.

Youngkin’s Political Future

As Youngkin leaves office in January 2026, his political future remains uncertain. He has not publicly addressed his plans following his term as governor. AP News He served as the 74th governor of Virginia from 2022 to 2026. Wikipedia