(BVN) – Richmond Democrat Mike Jones easily won a special election last night and will now serve in the Virginia’s state Senate. Jones defeated Republican John Thomas for Senate District 15 to replace Ghazala Hashmi, who was elected lieutenant governor  in November for a term beginning Jan. 17.

“We’re excited to welcome him to the Senate Democratic Caucus as we begin the 2026 legislative session focused on delivering real affordability for Virginians—from lowering housing and health care costs to strengthening education and workforce opportunities. I look forward to working alongside Senator-Elect Jones to keep Virginia moving forward and ensure every community has the opportunity to thrive,” wrote Virginia Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell said in a statement last night.