RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Embattled Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax is compared himself to Jim Crow-era lynching victims as he resists widespread calls to resign, prompted by allegations of sexual assault.
In a surprise speech Sunday in the state Senate at end of the 2019 legislative session, Fairfax denied the allegations and said the truth is on his side.
He mentioned legislation that the General Assembly passed expressing "profound regret" for lynchings in Virginia between 1877 and 1950. Fairfax, who is black, said his opponents were "willing to do the same thing."
Fairfax has been accused by two women of sexual assault. Both of the alleged victims are African American.
He has opposed an effort by House Republicans to hold a hearing on the allegations, saying the matter should be investigated by law enforcement.
Legislative Session Wraps Up
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia lawmakers have wrapped up this year's scandal-marked legislative session.
Lawmakers finished the session Sunday after passing a state budget that includes pay raises for teachers and state employees and significant new spending on public education.
This year's session has been unlike any other in recent memory, marked by a wave of scandals involving the state's top Democratic elected officials.
Gov. Ralph Northam and Attorney General Mark Herring admitted to wearing blackface years ago, while Fairfax has been accused by two women of sexual assault, which he denies.
Some notable legislation that passed this year includes a tax overhaul that will mean refunds of up to $220 for many taxpayers, a study on legalizing casinos, and a measure requiring Dominion Energy to clean up coal ash pits.
