Abigail Spanberger Makes History as Virginia’s First Woman Governor

Democrat Abigail Spanberger made history by defeating Republican Winsome Earle-Sears to become Virginia’s first woman governor, ending GOP rule under Glenn Youngkin. A former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman, Spanberger ran on economic stability, abortion rights, and protecting Virginia from “chaotic policies” linked to Trump. Her pragmatic approach resonated with moderates and independents, flipping the state blue and giving Democrats momentum ahead of the 2026 midterms. “Tonight we sent a message,” she told cheering supporters on election night.