Governor Youngkin's Controversial Pardons Ignite Political Debate

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has pardoned Scott Smith, the father of a student who was sexually assaulted in a high school bathroom, after Smith's arrest at a school board meeting became a rallying point for conservatives advocating for increased parental involvement in public education. Smith's disorderly conduct conviction, stemming from the incident in June 2021, has been pardoned by Youngkin, who made support for the "parents' rights" movement a key part of his campaign. Smith had protested the handling of his daughter's assault and threatened deputies at the meeting. The governor's decision has drawn criticism from the county's Commonwealth's Attorney, who accused Youngkin of interfering for political gain. Smith plans to pursue legal action against the school district and continue advocating for parents and their children.