Tom Barbour officially launched his campaign for Richmond’s commonwealth’s attorney last week, focusing on public safety issues in the city. Barbour, who previously ran for the office in 2021, outlined his vision for change, emphasizing Richmonders should not be held back by perceptions of unsafe streets.

“I will take action to ensure people want to live here, work here, and send their kids to public school here,” he said.

He also pledged to advocate for reforms that create a public safety system that works for all. Also in his remarks, Barbour expressed opposition to prosecuting charges related to extremist legislation that restricts reproductive rights or equality.

He also committed to addressing gun violence in the city, utilizing Virginia’s Red Flag Laws and working with Group Violence Intervention efforts. He also promised to reduce reckless driving, improve pedestrian safety and tackle crime with reforms targeting key factors.

“Public safety is about people,” Barbour said. “It’s about fighting crime while addressing the root causes that lead to it.”

Barbour previously served as a prosecutor and senior policy advisor on public safety reform under former Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael N. Herring. He later founded a law firm and nonprofit organization aimed at reducing recidivism.