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U.S. accuses China of "industrial-scale" campaigns to steal AI secrets

The accusation could complicate President Trump's upcoming visit to Beijing.

Technology

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="a23a268b-8799-4bb1-bc78-25c1c3aa1fcf" data-vars-headline="U.S. accuses China of &quot;industrial-scale&quot; campaigns to steal AI secrets" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> administration on Thursday accused China-backed actors of running &quot;deliberate, industrial-scale campaigns&quot; to distill and copy American frontier <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI models" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/22/anthropic-no-kill-switch-ai-classified-settings" data-vars-content-id="a23a268b-8799-4bb1-bc78-25c1c3aa1fcf" data-vars-headline="U.S. accuses China of &quot;industrial-scale&quot; campaigns to steal AI secrets" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/22/anthropic-no-kill-switch-ai-classified-settings" target="_self">AI models</a>.Why it matters: The accusation pushes the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S.-China AI rivalry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/18/white-house-ai-race-china" data-vars-content-id="a23a268b-8799-4bb1-bc78-25c1c3aa1fcf" data-vars-headline="U.S. accuses China of &quot;industrial-scale&quot; campaigns to steal AI secrets" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/18/white-house-ai-race-china" target="_self">U.S.-China AI rivalry</a> into more confrontational territory — and could complicate President Trump&#x27;s upcoming visit to Beijing.

U.S. sailor en route to Strait of Hormuz sidelined by monkey attack

U.S. sailor en route to Hormuz sidelined by monkey attack

Officials say the attack is a reminder that military missions face unexpected troubles and disruptions.

Politics & Policy

A U.S. Navy sailor assigned to a minesweeping ship that&#x27;s headed to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Strait of Hormuz" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/18/iran-closes-strait-of-hormuz-once-again-fires-on-tankers" data-vars-content-id="29f169fa-0962-471d-90d9-de5daf283898" data-vars-headline="U.S. sailor en route to Strait of Hormuz sidelined by monkey attack" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/18/iran-closes-strait-of-hormuz-once-again-fires-on-tankers" target="_self">Strait of Hormuz</a> was medically evacuated to his home port after he was scratched by an Asian monkey while ashore in Thailand, officials say.Why it matters: The Navy reports that the incident did not delay the USS Chief&#x27;s mission and that the sailor is OK, but officials say the attack is a reminder that military missions face unexpected troubles and disruptions that are hard to war-game for.

Trump to unveil drug price deal with Regeneron

Regeneron is the last of 17 companies the administration pressed to commit to the "most favored nation" policy.

Health

President Trump on Thursday will announce a drug pricing deal with Regeneron — the last of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="17 manufacturers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/31/trump-us-drug-prices-deadline" data-vars-content-id="40192039-ff8a-4958-98b5-ea165a13f3ea" data-vars-headline="Trump to unveil drug price deal with Regeneron" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/31/trump-us-drug-prices-deadline" target="_self">17 manufacturers</a> the administration <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pressured" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/31/trump-us-drug-prices-deadline" data-vars-content-id="40192039-ff8a-4958-98b5-ea165a13f3ea" data-vars-headline="Trump to unveil drug price deal with Regeneron" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/31/trump-us-drug-prices-deadline" target="_self">pressured</a> last year to commit to his &quot;most favored nation&quot; policy.Why it matters: The deals with the other companies to lower certain drug prices are being touted as one of the administration&#x27;s signature health accomplishments, though Democrats question whether the confidential arrangements are really helping consumers.

Supply chain cracks constrain AI boom

The Iran war threatens to squeeze the industrial inputs that chip manufacturers depend on.

Economy

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI economy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/23/ai-inflation-productivity-companies" data-vars-content-id="f5440fc1-9854-4fed-a83d-36ff861cf52f" data-vars-headline="Supply chain cracks constrain AI boom" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/23/ai-inflation-productivity-companies" target="_self">AI economy</a> is being constrained by the physical world: The Iran war threatens to squeeze the industrial inputs that chip manufacturers depend on, the latest confirmation that once-reliable global chokepoints are now more fragile than ever.Why it matters: It is part of a growing pattern defining the economic conditions of the 2020s: shocks exposing the fragility of supply chains that the world took for granted.

"I wish none of this had happened": GOP's buyer's remorse on redistricting

"I wish none of this had happened": GOP's redistricting remorse

The GOP's redistricting push now could be a wash — or even a plus for Democrats.

Buyer&#x27;s remorse is hitting House Republicans over their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mid-cycle redistricting war" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/22/trump-redistricting-war-backfiring-virginia-gop" data-vars-content-id="5b8ce554-2d05-4690-a112-2f816cb0bca1" data-vars-headline="&quot;I wish none of this had happened&quot;: GOP&#x27;s buyer&#x27;s remorse on redistricting" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/22/trump-redistricting-war-backfiring-virginia-gop" target="_self">mid-cycle redistricting war</a> — a strategy meant to protect their majority that&#x27;s now deeply in danger of backfiring.Why it matters: What began as an effort to create more GOP-controlled seats — and avoid a Democratic takeover that would weaken President Trump — now could be a wash, or even add to Democrats&#x27; edge.

Virginia voters approve effort to redraw congressional map

Virginia Democrats' redistricting passes in vote that could shift Congress

The move positions Virginia as a key battleground in a national redistricting fight that could help determine control of the U.S. House.

Virginia voters approved a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redistricting measure" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/04/21/virginia-redistricting-election-voter-confusion" data-vars-content-id="6eb66a27-e640-49ce-9f9e-e70036e7737d" data-vars-headline="Virginia voters approve effort to redraw congressional map" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/04/21/virginia-redistricting-election-voter-confusion" target="_self">redistricting measure</a> Tuesday, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AP reports," data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/projects/elections-2026/virginia-special-general-results-question-1/" data-vars-content-id="6eb66a27-e640-49ce-9f9e-e70036e7737d" data-vars-headline="Virginia voters approve effort to redraw congressional map" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/projects/elections-2026/virginia-special-general-results-question-1/" target="_blank">AP reports,</a> clearing the way for a new congressional map that could help Democrats flip multiple Republican-held districts.Why it matters: The move positions Virginia as a key battleground in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a national redistricting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/28/redistricting-illinois-indiana-trump-jeffries" data-vars-content-id="6eb66a27-e640-49ce-9f9e-e70036e7737d" data-vars-headline="Virginia voters approve effort to redraw congressional map" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/28/redistricting-illinois-indiana-trump-jeffries" target="_self">a national redistricting</a> fight that could help determine control of the U.S. House.

The "Taj Mahal" of Krogers is now open in Hanover

The $40M store spans 118,000 square feet and adds clothing, toys and more to grocery aisles.

Business

The largest Kroger in the Mid-Atlantic opened last week in Mechanicsville. Why it matters: The 118,000-plus-square-foot store sells toys, electronics, home goods, and has a clothing department, complete with a dressing room.

British royals plan Virginia stop for America's 250th

The king and queen plan a Virginia stop for the nation's 250th, with cultural events and visits planned.

News

The King and Queen of England are coming to Virginia at the end of April to celebrate America&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="250th anniversary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/04/09/virginia-250-richmond-events-museums-sailfest" data-vars-content-id="435b0b36-aace-49e4-a13d-fd07bfbf6467" data-vars-headline="British royals plan Virginia stop for America&#x27;s 250th" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/04/09/virginia-250-richmond-events-museums-sailfest" target="_self">250th anniversary</a>.Why it matters: That&#x27;s some posh sportsmanship from the royal heads of the country we fought against.

What to know about Virginia Beach's Oceanfront curfew

The temporary rule covers all ages in a two-mile tourist zone, with stricter limits for minors.

A temporary, all-ages curfew for a two-mile stretch of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront will be in effect again this Friday night. Why it matters: That&#x27;s on top of an existing one for minors, so if you&#x27;re planning a trip to Virginia Beach, you may want to study up on their rules.

Skipwith-Roper Cottage returns to Jackson Ward roots

After decades away, a rebuilt cottage honors a freedman who founded early Jackson Ward.

More than 70 years after a landmark Jackson Ward property was seized to make way for I-95, the rebuilt <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Skipwith-Roper Cottage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2024/12/16/jackson-ward-historic-abraham-skipwith-cottage" data-vars-content-id="d30ba10c-482c-4b64-ae24-0b2e2d33ae64" data-vars-headline="Skipwith-Roper Cottage returns to Jackson Ward roots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2024/12/16/jackson-ward-historic-abraham-skipwith-cottage" target="_self">Skipwith-Roper Cottage</a> is returning home.Why it matters: The public can celebrate its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homecoming" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-skipwith-roper-homecoming-tickets-1980699528609?aff=oddtdtcreator" data-vars-content-id="d30ba10c-482c-4b64-ae24-0b2e2d33ae64" data-vars-headline="Skipwith-Roper Cottage returns to Jackson Ward roots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-skipwith-roper-homecoming-tickets-1980699528609?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank">homecoming</a> — and the legacy of the man who built it more than 200 years ago — this weekend with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="series of events" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-skipwith-roper-homecoming-tickets-1980699528609?aff=oddtdtcreator" data-vars-content-id="d30ba10c-482c-4b64-ae24-0b2e2d33ae64" data-vars-headline="Skipwith-Roper Cottage returns to Jackson Ward roots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-skipwith-roper-homecoming-tickets-1980699528609?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank">series of events</a> culminating in a cottage ribbon-cutting on Sunday.

Richmond survey shows housing costs are squeezing renters most

A new survey finds unaffordability is pushing many Richmond renters to consider leaving the city.

A new survey from a pro-zoning refresh group found nearly 70% of Richmonders support allowing more housing types in the area, such as duplexes, small apartments and condos.Why it matters: Changing neighborhoods that are currently only single-family homes has become a hot-button issue as the city completes its biggest code rewrite in a generation.

Construction workers lead Richmond homeownership gains

But they're not the ones most likely to own a home.

Skilled trades and construction workers saw the biggest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homeownership" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/25/richmond-real-estate-2026-homebuyers-inventory-competition-mortgage-rates" data-vars-content-id="86fc5fbb-eab7-4430-b020-085567ecf1bf" data-vars-headline="Construction workers lead Richmond homeownership gains" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/25/richmond-real-estate-2026-homebuyers-inventory-competition-mortgage-rates" target="_self">homeownership</a> gains in metro Richmond over the past decade, according to a new analysis shared with Axios.Why it matters: They&#x27;re outpacing teachers, police and health care workers, per the National Association of Realtors&#x27; analysis of census data comparing homeownership rates in 2014 and 2024.

Redemption BBQ closure reflects Richmond dining strain

The Short Pump restaurant's owner says sales dropped sharply as expenses climbed, mirroring a wider local trend.

Redemption BBQ, named one of the South&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="best new barbecue restaurants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2024/08/23/best-barbecue-richmond-country-redemption" data-vars-content-id="9b571798-f01b-4997-99aa-31896c6ab214" data-vars-headline="Redemption BBQ closure reflects Richmond dining strain" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2024/08/23/best-barbecue-richmond-country-redemption" target="_self">best new barbecue restaurants</a>, will serve its last tray of barbecue and pile of minced pork on Saturday after four years in business.Why it matters: The challenges forcing the Short Pump restaurant to close are ones <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="independent restaurant owners" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/23/restaurants-menu-prices-james-beard-foundation-report" data-vars-content-id="9b571798-f01b-4997-99aa-31896c6ab214" data-vars-headline="Redemption BBQ closure reflects Richmond dining strain" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/23/restaurants-menu-prices-james-beard-foundation-report" target="_self">independent restaurant owners</a> everywhere are grappling with.

Virginia students pivot to STEM, health degrees

New state data shows STEM and health degrees surging as humanities majors steadily decline.

Education Brief

Virginia college students are increasingly opting to study STEM and health-related fields, according to a review of state data.Why it matters: The shift suggests that today&#x27;s students are increasingly prioritizing future job security and pay over a broad liberal arts education — once the sole reason students <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pursued higher education" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666374025000470" data-vars-content-id="5fd12fa5-cd0c-47f1-97e7-f42958673595" data-vars-headline="Virginia students pivot to STEM, health degrees" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666374025000470" target="_blank">pursued higher education</a>.

Virginia's public colleges and their mascots

From a kangaroo at VMI to a griffin at William & Mary, here's the full lineup.

Virginia&#x27;s public universities boast a wide array of wacky characters that serve as school mascots. Why it matters: We may not have anything as weird as Evergreen State&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burrowing clam" data-vars-click-url="https://www.evergreen.edu/student-life/our-mascot" data-vars-content-id="c3030284-e456-4ded-845a-acd78bbad7de" data-vars-headline="Virginia&#x27;s public colleges and their mascots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.evergreen.edu/student-life/our-mascot" target="_blank">burrowing clam</a> or the literal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Banana Slug" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ucsc.edu/campus/mascot/" data-vars-content-id="c3030284-e456-4ded-845a-acd78bbad7de" data-vars-headline="Virginia&#x27;s public colleges and their mascots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ucsc.edu/campus/mascot/" target="_blank">Banana Slug</a> at UC Santa Cruz, but we do have a kangaroo, a Highlander, a Spartan and a Trojan.

Richmond's $30 summer concert deal returns

Discounted tickets cover select Allianz Amphitheater shows as the summer promo expands again.

Things to Do

Live Nation&#x27;s $30 summer concert <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deal is back" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2025/05/20/live-nation-30-dollar-summer-concerts-deal" data-vars-content-id="f2605235-339d-46fe-b223-d018886e9243" data-vars-headline="Richmond&#x27;s $30 summer concert deal returns" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2025/05/20/live-nation-30-dollar-summer-concerts-deal" target="_self">deal is back</a>, the company announced this week.Why it matters: Locals can score cheap tickets to more than 4,000 shows in the U.S. and Canada, including some at Richmond&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Allianz Amphitheater" data-vars-click-url="https://www.allianzamphitheater.com/shows" data-vars-content-id="f2605235-339d-46fe-b223-d018886e9243" data-vars-headline="Richmond&#x27;s $30 summer concert deal returns" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.allianzamphitheater.com/shows" target="_blank">Allianz Amphitheater</a>.

Virginia data center boom faces Texas competition

Lawmakers are reconsidering $1.6B in incentives as Texas attracts new projects with land and power advantages.

Texas seems to be trying to oust Virginia from its spot as the data center capital of the world.Why it matters: The Lone Star state is positioning itself as one of the nation&#x27;s most data center-friendly states as Virginia lawmakers debate ending the massive tax break that helped land it at No. 1.

Richmond region split more on redistricting than governor's race

Some precincts that voted for Gov. Abigail Spanberger rejected redistricting — even in Richmond.

Across the Richmond region, more voting precincts were divided on the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redistricting measure" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/04/22/virginia-redistricting-vote-passes-house-control" data-vars-content-id="06038b78-872e-41be-ad33-b790f3b34560" data-vars-headline="Richmond region split more on redistricting than governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/04/22/virginia-redistricting-vote-passes-house-control" target="_self">redistricting measure</a> than on last year&#x27;s governor&#x27;s race.Why it matters: Some of the same precincts split on redistricting are also being split in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/06/virginia-redistricting-map-richmond-nova-midterms" data-vars-content-id="06038b78-872e-41be-ad33-b790f3b34560" data-vars-headline="Richmond region split more on redistricting than governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/06/virginia-redistricting-map-richmond-nova-midterms" target="_self">new congressional map</a>.

Richmond weekend guide: The Wiz, Shakespeare and Train Day

Broadway shows, festivals, food events and family fun fill Richmond's calendar through Sunday.

It&#x27;s a big RVA weekend for Shakespeare, artsy festivals and gardening.

New Hanover tourism push targets locals, I-95 drivers

The county is launching a coordinated strategy to turn a drive-through into a tourism destination.

Hanover County is betting on tomatoes, farms and road-trippers to become a tourism destination.Why it matters: Until <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="last fall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hanovercounty.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/968#:~:text=Hanover%20County%20has%20named%20Rachel,her%20role%20on%20September%201." data-vars-content-id="cb95dbe0-626a-48a3-ad58-37435cd617b9" data-vars-headline="New Hanover tourism push targets locals, I-95 drivers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hanovercounty.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/968#:~:text=Hanover%20County%20has%20named%20Rachel,her%20role%20on%20September%201." target="_blank">last fall</a>, the county didn&#x27;t have a tourism director. Now it has a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tourism brand" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/visithanoverva/" data-vars-content-id="cb95dbe0-626a-48a3-ad58-37435cd617b9" data-vars-headline="New Hanover tourism push targets locals, I-95 drivers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/visithanoverva/" target="_blank">tourism brand</a>, website, app and a campaign targeting the I-95 corridor between D.C. and Richmond.

Sapporo is selling Stone Brewing but keeping its Richmond taproom

The East End facility will become Sapporo's U.S. hub as the company sheds the Stone brand.

Stone Brewing&#x27;s owner is selling the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="San Diego-based brand" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/04/21/san-diegos-stone-brewing-sold-beer-production-moves" data-vars-content-id="e3d816ed-e7f3-45f4-9e45-651c39d4b277" data-vars-headline="Sapporo is selling Stone Brewing but keeping its Richmond taproom" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/04/21/san-diegos-stone-brewing-sold-beer-production-moves" target="_self">San Diego-based brand</a>, ending the production of Stone beers in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Richmond" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2022/06/27/sapporo-buys-stone-brewing-richmond-operations" data-vars-content-id="e3d816ed-e7f3-45f4-9e45-651c39d4b277" data-vars-headline="Sapporo is selling Stone Brewing but keeping its Richmond taproom" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2022/06/27/sapporo-buys-stone-brewing-richmond-operations" target="_self">Richmond</a> and temporarily closing its local taproom. Why it matters: Richmond gave Stone a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="multimillion-dollar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2022/06/27/sapporo-buys-stone-brewing-richmond-operations" data-vars-content-id="e3d816ed-e7f3-45f4-9e45-651c39d4b277" data-vars-headline="Sapporo is selling Stone Brewing but keeping its Richmond taproom" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2022/06/27/sapporo-buys-stone-brewing-richmond-operations" target="_self">multimillion-dollar</a> incentive package to secure the city as its East Coast production headquarters a decade ago.

Why Virginia's redistricting referendum is confusing some voters

Dark money, dueling ads and celebrity cameos are part of a high-stakes fight that could reshape Virginia.

One of the most unusual elections in recent Virginia politics is almost over.Why it matters: Virginia&#x27;s redistricting fight has been <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="filled with lawsuits" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/13/virginia-supreme-court-redistricting-referendum" data-vars-content-id="8fa03a18-4965-4b15-97f2-9cf629647a60" data-vars-headline="Why Virginia&#x27;s redistricting referendum is confusing some voters" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/13/virginia-supreme-court-redistricting-referendum" target="_self">filled with lawsuits</a>, conflicting messaging, celebrity cameos, dark money and Democrats announcing campaigns for districts <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="that don&#x27;t exist yet." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/11/virginia-redistricting-house-seats-2026" data-vars-content-id="8fa03a18-4965-4b15-97f2-9cf629647a60" data-vars-headline="Why Virginia&#x27;s redistricting referendum is confusing some voters" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/11/virginia-redistricting-house-seats-2026" target="_self">that don&#x27;t exist yet.</a>

70 mph in school zones: Richmond's worst speeding spots

Drivers going this fast are uncommon, but it's among the most dangerous driving behavior.

Richmond&#x27;s fastest school zone drivers reached at least 70 mph on some of the city&#x27;s busiest roads, per police data obtained by Axios.Why it matters: These rare cases of extreme speeding highlight a persistent challenge: curbing the small share of drivers responsible for the most dangerous behavior, Richmond transportation director Andy Boenau tells Axios.

Richmond's "leave a trinket" boxes are popping up everywhere

The premise is simple: Leave a trinket, take a trinket.

There&#x27;s a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing trend" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2026/03/06/san-francisco-trinket-trade-boxes-sidewalk-joy-outer-sunset-noe-valley-castro" data-vars-content-id="0d80d48a-b318-4ffc-86dc-1f2e7d36f769" data-vars-headline="Richmond&#x27;s &quot;leave a trinket&quot; boxes are popping up everywhere" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2026/03/06/san-francisco-trinket-trade-boxes-sidewalk-joy-outer-sunset-noe-valley-castro" target="_self">growing trend</a> in Richmond with a simple premise: Leave a trinket, take a trinket.Why it matters: The small, often hand-built boxes are part of a broader wave of spreading &quot;sidewalk joy,&quot; or creating connection between strangers through random, swappable items.

A love letter to L'Opossum: Richmond dining at its best

Take this as your sign to go to your bucket list Richmond restaurant instead of waiting years like I did.

Food and Drink

Five stars for Richmond chef David Shannon.Why: What he&#x27;s built with his Oregon Hill restaurant <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="L&#x27;Opossum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/05/12/richmond-best-restaurant-tournament-lopossum-lemaire" data-vars-content-id="7a7900c2-3dfb-45e0-b55e-4ff9e954668b" data-vars-headline="A love letter to L&#x27;Opossum: Richmond dining at its best" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/05/12/richmond-best-restaurant-tournament-lopossum-lemaire" target="_self">L&#x27;Opossum</a> is so beautiful that I haven&#x27;t stopped talking about it since finally dining there over a month ago.

Richmond weekend guide: Monument 10K, Patti LaBelle and more

Plus: Alabama Shakes, Juvenile and Two Feet concerts.

It&#x27;s Monument Avenue 10K weekend and we&#x27;re facing highs of 93-degree weather. Stay hydrated.

Allianz Amphitheater opens season two with upgrades

The upgrades, which include AC in bathrooms, are shaped by last year's feedback.

Culture

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Allianz Amphitheater" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/11/allianz-amphitheater-riverfront-2026-lineup" data-vars-content-id="c7bd96cd-3227-487a-8116-c852f6218883" data-vars-headline="Allianz Amphitheater opens season two with upgrades" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/11/allianz-amphitheater-riverfront-2026-lineup" target="_self">Allianz Amphitheater</a> at Riverfront is rolling out some venue upgrades for its second year. Why it matters: Its 2026 concert season starts Thursday with Alabama Shakes.

Where to find the viral soft serve margaritas in Richmond

Spoiler: There are at least two places in the city that offer them.

This is not a drill: La Playa on Broad Street has soft serve margaritas.Why it matters: Richmond has been in a soft serve marg deficit since Barrio closed in the Fan in 2024, and the only other place we&#x27;ve found that offers it is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Juan&#x27;s Rooftop" data-vars-click-url="https://anyflip.com/evyay/ojas/" data-vars-content-id="d5e96c85-6abc-4163-b6dd-ec9e145a7789" data-vars-headline="Where to find the viral soft serve margaritas in Richmond" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://anyflip.com/evyay/ojas/" target="_blank">Juan&#x27;s Rooftop</a>.

Virginia 250 celebrations ramp up across Richmond this month

From museum exhibits to reenactments, Richmond is already marking America's 250th anniversary.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="America&#x27;s 250th" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/trump-america-250-celebration-new-years-eve-dc" data-vars-content-id="a961e407-9fcd-43eb-a08d-5e0be16afdd9" data-vars-headline="Virginia 250 celebrations ramp up across Richmond this month" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/trump-america-250-celebration-new-years-eve-dc" target="_self">America&#x27;s 250th</a> is less than 100 days away, but you don&#x27;t have to wait until July 4 to celebrate. There&#x27;s already plenty happening just this month. Why it matters: A nation only turns 250 once, and Virginia played a pivotal role in its founding.

Richmond among cheapest for DoorDash breakfast basics

A basic breakfast delivery costs far less in Richmond than most cities, but real orders may vary.

Richmond is one of the cheapest cites in the nation to DoorDash breakfast, according to the food delivery company.Why it matters: With these <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gas prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/21/gas-prices-high-iran-strait-hormuz" data-vars-content-id="0b5a209f-9ac9-4904-ac66-fe9058f7b85b" data-vars-headline="Richmond among cheapest for DoorDash breakfast basics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/21/gas-prices-high-iran-strait-hormuz" target="_self">gas prices</a>, we could all use a pocketbook win.

Richmond Restaurant Week returns with $7 price jump

The popular dining event jumps to $42.26 per meal as restaurants face rising costs and fewer participants.

Spring <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Richmond Restaurant Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.rrweek.com/" data-vars-content-id="06ea8d84-b542-45de-8a81-732fe4a98cc1" data-vars-headline="Richmond Restaurant Week returns with $7 price jump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.rrweek.com/" target="_blank">Richmond Restaurant Week</a> is back —  with a $7 price hike.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the first price increase for the event since 2021 and the biggest in it&#x27;s 25-year history.

Charcuterie trend grows in Richmond with Graze Craze in Henrico

Pandemic-fueled hosting trends helped chains like Graze Craze expand into markets like Richmond.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Graze Craze" data-vars-click-url="https://www.grazecraze.com/" data-vars-content-id="84328023-b5d8-4fc3-8dd4-aa5ed42684e3" data-vars-headline="Charcuterie trend grows in Richmond with Graze Craze in Henrico" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.grazecraze.com/" target="_blank">Graze Craze</a>, the first Richmond location for the Florida-based charcuterie chain, is now open in the Gayton Crossing Shopping Center in the West End. Why it matters: It&#x27;s the latest shop in town where locals can grab a curated meat and cheese plate.

Coffee raves hit new Venezuelan café in Scott's Addition

Think espresso martinis, arepas and a DJ set at 11am.

Sabrina here. I stumbled upon a party at a new Venezuelan café in Scott&#x27;s Addition over the weekend.Why it matters: It&#x27;s part of a growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="club culture trend" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/02/coffee-raves-daybreaker-soft-clubbing" data-vars-content-id="617f71d3-0d40-4871-a0d2-624daea1876c" data-vars-headline="Coffee raves hit new Venezuelan café in Scott&#x27;s Addition" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/02/coffee-raves-daybreaker-soft-clubbing" target="_self">club culture trend</a> nationwide that includes daytime coffee raves.

Flavor Hive closes at The Park, plans new Richmond spot

The viral food truck closed at the bar near Scott's Addition less than six months after opening there.

Flavor Hive is out of The Park. Literally.The big picture: Less than six months after the viral food truck said it&#x27;d be &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="permanently open" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRdHqQ4kUz2/" data-vars-content-id="0ad44843-30f4-49d5-a39e-86d06c41ea49" data-vars-headline="Flavor Hive closes at The Park, plans new Richmond spot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRdHqQ4kUz2/" target="_blank">permanently open</a>&quot; inside the Scott&#x27;s Addition bar, it permanently closed there <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="on Saturday." data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWtlqzolTuG/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="0ad44843-30f4-49d5-a39e-86d06c41ea49" data-vars-headline="Flavor Hive closes at The Park, plans new Richmond spot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWtlqzolTuG/?hl=en" target="_blank">on Saturday.</a>

The 10 best rooftop bars in Richmond

We&#x27;ve rounded up 10 of Richmond&#x27;s best rooftops, from Carytown and the Fan to downtown and Shockoe.Why it matters: Most of them just reopened, and there&#x27;s nothing that makes life worth living quite like a drink with a view.

Virginia redistricting vote sets spending record

More than $83M has been pouring into Virginia's redistricting fight, ousting Richmond casino from the top spot.

Virginia&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redistricting referendum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/06/virginia-redistricting-map-richmond-nova-midterms" data-vars-content-id="669f4e22-7057-4d8f-aff8-87a06d85748a" data-vars-headline="Virginia redistricting vote sets spending record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/06/virginia-redistricting-map-richmond-nova-midterms" target="_self">redistricting referendum</a> is the most expensive ballot measure in state history, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Virginia Public Access Project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.vpap.org/visuals/visual/the-most-expensive-referenda/" data-vars-content-id="669f4e22-7057-4d8f-aff8-87a06d85748a" data-vars-headline="Virginia redistricting vote sets spending record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.vpap.org/visuals/visual/the-most-expensive-referenda/" target="_blank">the Virginia Public Access Project</a>. Why it matters: The money pumped into the redistricting campaigns ousted Richmond&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2023 casino referendum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/11/08/election-results-casino-urban-one-churchill-downs" data-vars-content-id="669f4e22-7057-4d8f-aff8-87a06d85748a" data-vars-headline="Virginia redistricting vote sets spending record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/11/08/election-results-casino-urban-one-churchill-downs" target="_self">2023 casino referendum</a> from the top spot.

Spanberger charts moderate course in first Virginia session

Her mix of vetoes, amendments and approvals show where she agrees — and breaks — with her own party.

Facing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tepid popularity" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/04/06/virginia-spanberger-approval-poll-affordability/" data-vars-content-id="6d0fe811-28a9-4db8-b712-a02715ee3ee8" data-vars-headline="Spanberger charts moderate course in first Virginia session" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/04/06/virginia-spanberger-approval-poll-affordability/" target="_blank">tepid popularity</a> and Republican attacks, Gov. Abigail Spanberger is starting to stake out a more centrist path in Virginia.Why it matters: In her first legislative session, Spanberger&#x27;s actions on over 1,000 bills Monday night show she&#x27;s diving into the details — and willing to break with her own party.

Spanberger proposes broad changes to major Virginia bills

Her amendments reshape major policies, from raising gun age limits to delaying marijuana sales.

Gov. Spanberger proposed changes to more than 100 bills in her first review process, from marijuana sales and paid sick leave to unions and guns.Why it matters: Even with full Democratic control of the statehouse, the moves suggest the former Congresswoman is governing like a legislator. Zoom in: Here are some of Spanberger&#x27;s noteworthy <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="amendments" data-vars-click-url="https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/april-releases/name-1116400-en.html" data-vars-content-id="0c74f3f1-1aae-44b7-aeea-97afb39fce6e" data-vars-headline="Spanberger proposes broad changes to major Virginia bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/april-releases/name-1116400-en.html" target="_blank">amendments</a>.GunsThe governor proposed slight changes to a slew of gun legislation, including: <ul><li>A ban on assault weapons bought or sold after July 1, to allow some semi-automatic shotguns used for hunting </li><li>On universal background checks, she added that private sales are included and upped the minimum purchase age for handguns and some semi-automatic firearms from 18 to 21.</li><li>She also added a clause for background checks to resume as soon as state legislators sign off. </li></ul>Cannabis market On the legislation creating the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state&#x27;s recreational marijuana marketplace" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/19/virginia-retail-marijuana-sales-bill-2026" data-vars-content-id="0c74f3f1-1aae-44b7-aeea-97afb39fce6e" data-vars-headline="Spanberger proposes broad changes to major Virginia bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/19/virginia-retail-marijuana-sales-bill-2026" target="_self">state&#x27;s recreational marijuana marketplace</a>, the governor proposed pushing the start of sales from January 1 to July 1, 2027. <ul><li>Plus, she wants to reduce the number of stores allowed in the state, increase the tax rate and allow more people to qualify for &quot;impact licenses,&quot; including veterans and the economically disadvantaged. </li></ul>Marijuana sentence reductions Spanberger proposed a petition process for people previously convicted of marijuana-related offenses. The original bill required an automatic hearing. Paid family leaveThe governor proposed eligibility limits and other restrictions to legislation that would allow Virginia workers up to 12 weeks of paid leave to care for themselves or a family member. <ul><li>She wants to narrow the definition of family to mean household and relatives as opposed to a &quot;close association.&quot;</li><li>Changes also require eligible employees to be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and employed for at least 120 days to get job protection. </li></ul>Paid sick leave Proposed changes to the bill that would allow one hour of sick leave to every 30 hours worked include requiring advance notice for foreseeable leave and written or electronic leave requests.Unions Spanberger proposed delaying the start of a collective bargaining resource board by two years. The board is designed to help state and local government employees, plus home health workers, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unionize" data-vars-click-url="https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB378" data-vars-content-id="0c74f3f1-1aae-44b7-aeea-97afb39fce6e" data-vars-headline="Spanberger proposes broad changes to major Virginia bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB378" target="_blank">unionize</a>. ICE enforcementOn legislation limiting where ICE agents can make arrests without a warrant, she proposed stripping the enforcement portion of the bill. <ul><li>And on one barring ICE and other law enforcement from wearing masks, she amended the language to allow individual departments to set their own policies. </li></ul>The intrigue: Some statehouse Democrats pushed back on the governor&#x27;s proposed changes to their legislation.<ul><li>Sen. Lashrecse Aird and Del. Paul Krizek, who sponsored the legislation creating the state&#x27;s retail marijuana market, said in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a joint statement" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/lashrecseaird/status/2044127374468399260/photo/1" data-vars-content-id="0c74f3f1-1aae-44b7-aeea-97afb39fce6e" data-vars-headline="Spanberger proposes broad changes to major Virginia bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/lashrecseaird/status/2044127374468399260/photo/1" target="_blank">a joint statement</a> that the governor&#x27;s revision will make the legal market harder to access and allow the illicit market to thrive.</li><li>Sen. Saddam Azlan Salim <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expressed concern" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/salimforva/status/2044061552320409626/photo/1" data-vars-content-id="0c74f3f1-1aae-44b7-aeea-97afb39fce6e" data-vars-headline="Spanberger proposes broad changes to major Virginia bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/salimforva/status/2044061552320409626/photo/1" target="_blank">expressed concern</a> over changes to his bills attempting to rein in ICE enforcement in the state.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: The General Assembly will consider her amendments when it reconvenes on April 22.

Avula wants to bring back public spending data access — with limits

Officials have failed for years to follow Richmond's law. They say it's due to how labor intensive the process is.

Richmond hasn&#x27;t published a full public log of its spending, as required by its own law, since 2019.Why it matters: Now, city leaders say they want to amend the law to make compliance possible, a move past administrations attempted and were criticized for doing.

Top takeaways from Youngkin's Hannity interview

The former governor talked future plans, Trump ties and his Richmond election strategy.

Former Gov. Glenn Youngkin chatted with Sean Hannity about his time in office and future plans in an interview that aired this week. Why it matters: It&#x27;s the brief Richmonder&#x27;s first big interview since leaving office in January.

Bettors grow more confident Virginia redistricting vote will pass

That optimism runs counter to the growing anxiety among Democrats.

People are betting that Virginia&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redistricting referendum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/06/virginia-redistricting-map-richmond-nova-midterms" data-vars-content-id="5a67a115-3355-437a-b350-5f8e905b73b6" data-vars-headline="Bettors grow more confident Virginia redistricting vote will pass" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/02/06/virginia-redistricting-map-richmond-nova-midterms" target="_self">redistricting referendum</a> will pass, and the odds have only grown more confident in recent days.Why it matters: That optimism runs counter to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing anxiety" data-vars-click-url="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/03/26/abigail-spanberger-virginia-redistricting-election-00845675" data-vars-content-id="5a67a115-3355-437a-b350-5f8e905b73b6" data-vars-headline="Bettors grow more confident Virginia redistricting vote will pass" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/03/26/abigail-spanberger-virginia-redistricting-election-00845675" target="_blank">growing anxiety</a> among Democrats due to strong early voting turnout in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Republican-leaning districts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/23/virginia-redistricting-referendum-early-voting-turnout-gop-vs-dem-richmond-vpap" data-vars-content-id="5a67a115-3355-437a-b350-5f8e905b73b6" data-vars-headline="Bettors grow more confident Virginia redistricting vote will pass" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2026/03/23/virginia-redistricting-referendum-early-voting-turnout-gop-vs-dem-richmond-vpap" target="_self">Republican-leaning districts</a>.

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