Jakob Genest

Institution: Radford University

Candidacy: Senate Minority Leader

Bio: Hello, I'm Jakob Genest, and I am running for Senate Minority Leadership. I am currently a Junior at Radford University studying political science. I am originally from Herndon in Fairfax County, but I have lived all over the world. Some of you may recognize me from last year, when I served as the only Republican committee chair, chair of the Judiciary Committee. I also participated in the Spring conference for the Western region, where I helped draft our proposal for the VGS Constitution. In addition to my VGS participation, I lead Radford's Model U.N. program and the Wesley Foundation at Radford. I also have the privilege of working for the Federal government for 4 seasons overseas with the Foreign Service and also in Western/Southwestern Virginia for Congress. These experiences are a large part of why I am interested in running for leadership in VGS and why I want to help make a difference in Virginia. 

Statement: I had the privilege of serving on the Republican leadership team in 2025 as our only committee chair. This leadership opportunity gave me the knowledge to coordinate and work within and outside the party. Through that experience, I also helped Democratic and Republican leadership plan and coordinate with each other to ensure essential functions were carried out. I believe we must do our best to respect and hear everyone's beliefs, as ultimately all of us want what is best for the Commonwealth and its residents. It will be my utmost priority to advocate for our party's beliefs, listen to our members, and work across the aisle to ensure we pass meaningful legislation. I humbly ask for your support to make this mission possible and ensure that all voices are heard, not just a select few. Thank you.