What to watch for as Virginia’s gubernatorial candidates Spanberger and Earle-Sears debate Politics Oct 9, 2025 11:43 AM EDT

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Republican Winsome Earle-Sears and Democrat Abigail Spanberger are slated to debate their competing visions for Virginia on Thursday in the state’s gubernatorial race. And each woman arguably has the same goal: to blame her opponent for backing the chaos in Washington.

Virginia is one of two states choosing governors this November, and its election is often seen as a bellwether for the party in power across the Potomac River ahead of midterm elections next year.

READ MORE: Virginia Rep. Abigail Spanberger is running for governor in 2025 instead of seeking reelection to the House

Washington politics are especially relevant this year in Virg

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