In a groundbreaking victory, Abigail Spanberger has been declared the first woman to serve as Virginia's governor, according to reports by The Associated Press. Spanberger's win marks a significant moment in the state's history, coinciding with a successful night for the Democratic ticket. State Sen. Ghazala Hashmi (D–Chesterfield) secured the lieutenant governor's position, while former Del. Jay Jones (D–Norfolk) won the attorney general's office. Additionally, Speaker of the House Don Scott (D–Portsmouth) appears to have expanded his majority in the House of Delegates, achieving one of the largest Democratic majorities in decades.
The Associated Press officially called the governor's race for Spanberger just before 8 p.m. on election night. By 12:47 a.m. Wednesday, Spanberger maintained a commanding lead with 57.5% to 42%, with 97% of the votes counted. Though election results remain unofficial until certified by the state, Spanberger's win sends a strong message across Virginia and the nation. In her victory speech, she emphasized, "We sent a message to the whole world … that in 2025, Virginia chose pragmatism over partisanship."
Abigail Spanberger's political journey began when she was elected as the U.S. Representative for Virginia's 7th Congressional District in 2018. Following two successful reelections, she opted not to run for reelection in 2024. Spanberger has represented a diverse region of Central Virginia and demonstrated resilience, especially after redistricting altered her constituency. With a background as a former CIA officer and postal inspector, Spanberger has deep ties to Henrico County, where she was raised.
In her gubernatorial campaign, Spanberger faced off against Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, who aimed to continue the policies of Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin. Earle-Sears conceded the race publicly around 9:30 p.m., approximately an hour and a half after the race was called. In her concession speech, she reflected on the lessons learned from defeat, stating, "I think I learn more in a loss than I ever do in a victory."
Earle-Sears also expressed her hope that Spanberger would represent all Virginians, urging her to support policies that promote unity rather than division. The former lieutenant governor highlighted her commitment to school choice and called for prayers for both Spanberger and the citizens of Virginia, emphasizing her faith and political ethos.
Spanberger will take office in January amidst a challenging economic landscape for Virginia, as federal policy changes threaten the state's financial stability. The Republican-led Congress has enacted measures that could strip billions in food assistance and healthcare subsidies. Furthermore, the ongoing federal government shutdown has put pressure on Virginia's 322,000 federal workers, with many seeking unemployment benefits.
In her victory speech, Spanberger emphasized that the real work begins now that the campaign is over. She articulated her commitment to lowering energy, housing, and healthcare costs, while also pledging to address predatory pharmaceutical practices and surprise billing. Additionally, she reaffirmed her stance on abortion rights, stating that healthcare decisions should remain between women and their doctors.
Spanberger enters office with a Democratic-controlled legislature, including a slim majority in the Virginia Senate and a strong majority in the House of Delegates. While her speech was largely conciliatory, she did not shy away from confronting challenges, stating, "As governor, my job will be to put Virginia first, full stop." She called upon Congress and the President to work towards resolving the federal shutdown.
Many voters cited Spanberger's opposition to Washington politics and her advocacy for education as key reasons for their support. Jennifer Kelsey-Backus, a voter from Henrico, expressed her dissatisfaction with the Trump administration and highlighted the impact of the government shutdown on Virginians. Spanberger's campaign was bolstered by a significant fundraising effort, raising nearly $66 million, nearly double that of Earle-Sears.
Abigail Spanberger's historic victory signifies a new era for Virginia. As the first woman governor, she holds the potential to influence policies that matter to Virginians across the spectrum. Her commitment to pragmatic governance and addressing the pressing needs of the state will be closely watched in the coming months as she takes on the responsibilities of her new role.
