In Virginia's lieutenant governor race, Republican nominee John Reid is embroiled in controversy after allegedly posting lewd photos on a Tumblr account, a claim he denies. The dispute intensified when Reid accused Matt Moran, an advisor linked to Governor Glenn Youngkin, of extortion, alleging that Moran attempted to buy negative information against Reid to halt negative press. Audio from a conversation suggests Moran proposed Reid step down, implying it would prevent further harm to the Republican Party. Reid's campaign filed a cease-and-desist letter against Moran, who denied any wrongdoing, asserting he acted in Reid's best interests and as a friend. Governor Youngkin called for Reid to withdraw, citing the distraction caused by the allegations, but left the decision to Reid himself.

John Reid, the Republican nominee for Virginia's lieutenant governor, faces pressure to drop out due to allegations of lewd photos being linked to him, which he denies, stating the Tumblr account in question is not his.

Matt Moran, an advisor connected to Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Spirit of Virginia PAC, is accused by Reid of attempting to extort him by offering to purchase negative research and end damaging coverage if Reid withdrew from the race.

Audio evidence from an April 25 conversation reveals Moran suggesting that Reid stepping down would be in everyone's best interest, implying continued candidacy could harm the party and candidates across the ticket.

Reid's campaign has filed a cease-and-desist letter against Moran, who insists in an affidavit that he never threatened Reid and only offered advice as a friend and colleague, denying any attempt to coerce or extort.

Governor Youngkin has publicly called for Reid to step down, citing the distraction the allegations create, yet emphasized that the final decision remains with Reid.

Reid's spokesperson argues that Moran's actions represent a clear threat, and criticizes Moran for creating a party distraction after failing to secure business from Reid's campaign.

Moran maintains his innocence, pointing to a social media post and a letter from his attorney asserting that evidence will show he did not attempt to extort or pressure Reid, but rather offered sound professional advice.