NORFOLK, Va. — The first and only debate between the Virginia gubernatorial candidates was held at Norfolk State University on Thursday — it featured repeated interruptions, dodgy answers, and plenty of heated moments for the internet to chew on.

Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and Democrat Abigail Spanberger sparred over the government shutdown, transgender policy, the Jay Jones text controversy, and several other hot-button issues.

With clips of the debate circulating social media, many Virginia leaders, political influencers, and editorial journalists have provided their reactions.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin praised his lieutenant governor's debate performance while criticizing Spanberger, saying she "evaded every direct question."

Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine said "the choice

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