Story perspectives

Spanberger Leads Earle-Sears in Virginia Gubernatorial Race

10/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

In Virginia, Suffolk University poll shows Democratic gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger leading Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears 52% to 43% with Election Day near.
The poll shows lieutenant governor and attorney general races, with lieutenant gubernatorial candidates John Reid and Ghazala Hasmi tied at 45%, and Jason Miyares leading Jay Jones 46%–42%.
Spanberger's support is strong among women and Black voters, but she faces challenges from her party's other nominees.

History

Historical Context

Virginia's political landscape has shifted significantly since the 2008 election, when it voted Democratic for the first time in ten presidential elections. The 2021 gubernatorial election saw Republican Glenn Youngkin defeat Democrat Terry McAuliffe by a narrow margin of 50.6% to 48.6%, marking the first Republican victory since 2009 and reflecting changing voter demographics and mobilization strategies.

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Story summary

In Virginia, Suffolk University poll shows Democratic gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger leading Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears 52% to 43% with Election Day near.
The poll shows lieutenant governor and attorney general races, with lieutenant gubernatorial candidates John Reid and Ghazala Hasmi tied at 45%, and Jason Miyares leading Jay Jones 46%–42%.
Spanberger's support is strong among women and Black voters, but she faces challenges from her party's other nominees.

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