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Virginia Democrats Secure VMI Funding Amid Controversy

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Virginia Democrats revised legislation that initially jeopardized funding for the Virginia Military Institute (VMI).
The amended House Bill 1377 now guarantees funding after backlash from the Trump administration and VMI cadets.
Cadets expressed relief, highlighting VMI's focus on character rather than race.
House Bill 1374, which sought to dissolve VMI’s Board of Visitors, was changed to restructure the board instead.
The Department of War announced it will take steps to safeguard VMI's integrity amid these changes.

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Story summary

Virginia Democrats revised legislation that initially jeopardized funding for the Virginia Military Institute (VMI).
The amended House Bill 1377 now guarantees funding after backlash from the Trump administration and VMI cadets.
Cadets expressed relief, highlighting VMI's focus on character rather than race.
House Bill 1374, which sought to dissolve VMI’s Board of Visitors, was changed to restructure the board instead.
The Department of War announced it will take steps to safeguard VMI's integrity amid these changes.