Democrats win; women elected governors in Virginia and New Jersey.
Former Democratic congresswoman and former CIA officer Abigail Spanberger defeated Republican Winsome Earl Sears in the Virginia gubernatorial race after a long battle without any primary elections, US television networks announced on Tuesday night (New York time).
Spanberger will succeed Republican Governor Glenn Yankin, who was barred from running for re-election due to state term limits.
Her campaign focused on issues such as affordability and addressing local concerns about the impact of federal job cuts and the government shutdown, issues that directly affect a state with more than 300,000 federal employees.
Spanberger also attempted to link Earl Sears to “Donald Trump,” calling him a “Trump supporter,” even though the Republican president has not officially endorsed her.
Her victory would take control of the governorship away from Republicans and give Democrats nationwide a boost, especially as they struggle to respond to a second Trump administration.
The victory is also a victory for moderate Democrats, who have been trying to establish themselves as a key part of the Democratic coalition with their ability to win in competitive districts and “purple” states.
Spanberger, 46, is a mother of three and served in the military and the CIA before entering politics. She was first elected to represent Virginia’s 7th District after defeating Republican Rep. Dave Brett, who had once made headlines by defeating then-House Majority Leader Eric Kanter. She served three terms in the House before leaving Congress this year.