(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

Spanberger becomes first female governor of Va. in state history

BY SAM DOUGLAS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

AP News has called the Virginia gubernatorial race for Democratic candidate for Governor Abigail Spanberger with 29.6% of votes counted, defeating Republican candidate Winsome Earle-Sears to become the first female governor in the history of Virginia.

It is a major shift for Va., which has been governed by Republican Glenn Youngkin since his inauguration in January 2022. 

Spanberger, a former CIA agent who served Virginia’s 7th Congressional District in the House of Representatives from 2019-2025, will take office on Jan. 17, 2026.

“As Governor, Abigail will continue fighting for hardworking Virginia families and make Virginia’s economy work for the Virginians who are working hard but struggling to get by. Abigail will be focused on strengthening our public schools, keeping our communities safe, making Virginia more affordable, and protecting our fundamental rights,” Spanberger’s campaign website reads.

The shockwave of Spanberger’s win is likely to be felt at Mason; the Board of Visitors is selected by the governor, and all current visitors have been appointed by Youngkin. 

She has campaigned on issues such as education, promising to “strengthen Virginia’s schools” according to her website. 

Spanberger has also campaigned on issues such as increasing access to abortion, lowering healthcare and prescription drug costs, and banning assault-style weapons.

Mason voters who chose Spanberger have cited her stance on issues such as education, legislation, LGBTQ+ rights and anti-discrimination, renewable energy, the environment, abortion rights and immigration.