GOP Candidate Earle-Sears Unveils ‘Axe the Tax’ Proposal in Virginia Governor Race

Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, the top Republican contender in one of this year’s most watched gubernatorial races, has rolled out a bold tax reform proposal she says is designed to make life easier for working families. The plan, dubbed “Axe the Tax”, promises to eliminate taxes on tips and vehicle-based property taxes—a direct appeal to millions of Virginians in the service industry and everyday commuters.

Earle-Sears’ initiative to end state taxes on tips aligns with high-profile national discussions, including proposals championed by former President Donald Trump. The measure stands to benefit food service workers, hospitality employees, and anyone whose earnings rely on tips across Virginia’s vibrant nightlife and tourism hubs like Alexandria, Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, and Roanoke. Under her plan, these workers would face 0% tax on tips statewide, a move she argues will immediately put more money into the hands of families already struggling with rising costs.

“The ‘Axe the Tax’ plan is rooted in a simple truth: Working Americans shouldn’t be punished for earning a living or driving to work,” Earle-Sears said. She emphasized that both state and national leaders should focus on targeted relief rather than broad, unfocused legislation, adding, “Real working families deserve to keep more money in their pockets, and, as governor, I’ll make sure they do.”

Beyond gratuities, the proposal also targets the controversial car tax and vehicle property taxes imposed in Virginia—fees that residents of more than half the states nationwide are required to pay. Repealing these, Earle-Sears argued, would ease a heavy burden on the state’s many commuters and small business owners who depend on their vehicles. She noted that unlike metropolitan areas with robust public transit, most Virginians rely on cars for daily life and work.

Earle-Sears framed her tax plan as not only a local remedy but also a potential model for Congress, where tight partisan divides have often hampered sweeping change. “Virginia is leading the way,” Earle-Sears declared, urging Washington lawmakers to adopt a smarter, more surgical approach to tax relief that responds directly to what voters want. She underscored the importance of listening to constituents and building consensus around issues that cut across party lines.

With the gubernatorial race heating up and economic pressures weighing heavily on families, Earle-Sears is positioning herself as a champion for practical, people-focused governance. Her message: Now is the time for lawmakers at every level to work smarter, not harder, and ensure that those who fuel the economy aren’t penalized for their hard work.