Abigail Spanberger Wins Historic Virginia Governor’s Election

UPDATE: Abigail Spanberger has just been declared the winner of Virginia’s gubernatorial election, marking a historic moment as she becomes the state’s first female governor. The Democratic candidate decisively defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, with the Associated Press calling the race shortly after polls closed on November 7, 2023.

With 35% of the votes counted, Spanberger secured 55% compared to Earle-Sears’ 45%, a result consistent with pre-election polling that predicted Spanberger would lead by a margin of 7 to 12 points. This election, held in an odd-numbered year, is closely watched nationally as a bellwether for the presidential party’s standing and a precursor to the congressional midterms.

Spanberger, a former U.S. representative and federal law enforcement officer, focused her campaign on pressing economic issues, resonating with voters concerned about affordability amid rising costs of living. This focus positioned her as a moderate willing to work across party lines, appealing particularly to centrists and independents.

In contrast, Earle-Sears concentrated on social issues, including debates over transgender participation in sports and parental rights in education. However, recent polling from Christopher Newport University indicated that Virginia voters prioritized threats to democracy, inflation, healthcare, and immigration—issues that Spanberger successfully capitalized on.

The election unfolded against the backdrop of an ongoing federal government shutdown, impacting Virginia’s federal workforce and funding. Spanberger’s campaign also outpaced Earle-Sears in fundraising, amassing over $65 million compared to her opponent’s $35 million as of late last month, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

The victory not only marks a significant milestone for women in Virginia politics but also highlights changing voter priorities in the state. As Spanberger prepares to take office, all eyes will be on how her policies will address the pressing concerns of Virginia residents.

Stay tuned for more updates as Spanberger outlines her agenda in the coming weeks. This election is expected to have lasting implications for Virginia’s political landscape and could set the tone for elections nationwide.