Virginia voters are participating in a historic gubernatorial election that is expected to gauge public sentiment regarding President Donald Trump and the Democratic Party’s efforts to regain influence on the national stage. This marks the first general election for state and local offices since Trump returned to the White House and initiated an expansion of executive power.
The race features Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, currently serving as Virginia’s lieutenant governor, and Democrat Abigail Spanberger, a moderate Democrat and former CIA case officer. Both candidates aim to become the first woman elected as governor of Virginia, with Earle-Sears also poised to be the first Black woman to hold the gubernatorial office in any state.
This election comes as a pivotal moment for both parties ahead of the 2024 national midterm elections, which could significantly shape the direction of Trump’s presidency. Virginia, which Trump has lost in three consecutive presidential elections, has been impacted by policies such as significant cuts to the civil service and ongoing issues stemming from a government shutdown.
For Republicans, Earle-Sears represents a candidate molded in Trump’s image but without his explicit endorsement, raising questions about her viability in a battleground state. Conversely, Spanberger aims to demonstrate that a centrist approach remains effective, despite efforts to rally the party’s progressive base.
Spanberger articulated the significance of the election amid ongoing political turmoil, stating, “Virginia voters can and will send a message amid the recklessness and the heartlessness coming out of Washington.” Meanwhile, Earle-Sears argued that Spanberger symbolizes a negative direction, calling her a representation of “the darkness.”
Spanberger’s campaign has focused on addressing voters’ concerns over living costs and the repercussions of Trump’s domestic policy, particularly regarding health care. She has invested heavily in ads linking Earle-Sears to Trump, though she has steered clear of Democratic warnings on democracy that didn’t resonate with many voters.
Trump’s backing of Earle-Sears has been lukewarm, especially after she previously stated she wouldn’t support his run for re-election—only to backtrack later. During a recent campaign event, while Youngkin provided high-profile support, Trump’s absence raised eyebrows.
Earle-Sears has positioned herself as a defender against cultural issues while downplaying her staunch anti-abortion stance, providing Spanberger with an opportunity to emphasize her support for abortion rights in a state that has yet to implement major restrictions post-Dobbs.
In addition to the gubernatorial race, voters will also cast ballots for the lieutenant governor position and all 100 seats in the state’s Democratic-led House of Delegates, while the state Senate election will take place in 2027.
This election is not only crucial for Virginia but may also set a precedent as the country moves towards the midterms, reflecting the changing political landscape and voter priorities.