Key Facts
Background
| Jennifer Wexton graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.A. and from the College of William and Mary’s law school. Wexton is a former Assistant Commonwealth’s attorney and State Senator representing the 33rd district. As Assistant Commonwealths attorney, Wexton successfully prosecuted Clara Jane Schwartz for the murder of her father which made national news. As a State Senator, Wexton advocated for combating the opioid and heroin epidemic. Wexton has been accused of comparing Tea Party activists with rapists, an accusation to which she denies. |
Key Issues
Health Care
Wexton advocates for the idea that healthcare is a human right and supports the lowering of prescription drug prices. She has also supported the Affordable Care Act and the Strengthening Health Care and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs Act. She wants to increase funding for school based mental health professionals to lower youth suicide rates.
Abortion
Wexton is pro-choice.
LGBTQ+ Rights
Wexton supports equality under the law for members of the LGBTQ community, specifically supporting bills combatting the bullying of LGBTQ youth.
Environment
Wexton supports the protection and conservation of the environment. She has received numerous environmental awards including the “Environmental Freedom” Award from Sierra Club Virginia and the “Legislative Hero” Award from the Virginia League of Conservation Voters.
Gun Control/Rights
Wexton supports gun control legislation such as universal background checks, closing loopholes that allow for convicted criminals to purchase guns and an assault weapons ban. She was a cosponsor of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2019 after the shooting in Virginia Beach.
Economy
Wexton supports raising the minimum wage, closing the wage gap between men and women, requiring paid medical leave and increased investment in career and vocational training. She is also a member of the Financial Services Committee.