Incumbent Republican Commonwealth's Attorney Wade A. Kizer announced that he would be retiring from the position, making it an open contest.

[5] Days later, Republican Bill Janis entered the race as an Independent politician, dropping his bid for another term for the Virginia House of Delegates.

[6][7][8][9] The Republican Party of Virginia started questioning Geary's leadership after he admitted to an extramarital affair.

[10][11][12] The Henrico County Executive Committee called Geary "an angry and volatile candidate”, and one of his consultants, Amanda Chase, left the campaign.

[15][20] In 2012, Janis was offered a job by governor Bob McDonnell in the Department of Veterans Services after weeks of speculation after his loss.