Summary
Virginia's upcoming election for governor has two main candidates: Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears. Late-breaking issues, like federal workforce cuts and controversial texts from a Democratic candidate, are influencing the race. This election occurs before the midterms and could provide insight into voter feelings about President Trump's administration.
Key Facts
- Virginia holds its governor election on November 4, in an off-year cycle.
- Abigail Spanberger, a former U.S. Representative, is the Democratic candidate.
- Winsome Earle-Sears, the current lieutenant governor, is the Republican candidate.
- Virginia has about 320,000 federal workers, many affected by recent federal cuts and a government shutdown.
- A controversy involving violent text messages by a Democratic attorney general candidate may be swaying public opinion.
- Historically, the party not in the White House often wins Virginia's governor race.
- The election results could impact other positions on the ballot.
- Many affected federal workers in Virginia feel motivated to vote due to recent job losses.
