Virginia Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger sets sight on 2025 gubernatorial race

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As Rep. Abigail Spanberger prepares to conclude her tenure in Congress, the Virginia Democrat is setting her sights on a new challenge: the 2025 gubernatorial race. 

Spanberger spoke with FOX 5's Jim Lokay about her legislative legacy, her decision to run for governor, and her perspective on recent political developments, including Donald Trump’s nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.

Spanberger, who has represented Virginia’s 7th Congressional District since 2019, emphasized her commitment to bipartisanship during her time in the House. 

"Serving in Congress has been one of the greatest honors of my life," she said. "Every decision I’ve made has been guided by the values and needs of the people I represent."

A former CIA officer, Spanberger’s intelligence background has shaped her approach to leadership and public service. She pointed to her years in the intelligence community as critical preparation for tackling complex issues.

"My time in the CIA taught me the importance of being decisive, understanding the nuances of global and domestic threats, and working collaboratively to solve problems," she said. "These are lessons I’ll bring to the governor’s office."

Her intelligence experience also informed her reaction to Trump’s recent nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. "This is a consequential role that requires a deep understanding of the intelligence apparatus and the trust of career professionals," Spanberger said. "While I respect Tulsi Gabbard’s service, I have concerns about her positions on key national security issues. The Director of National Intelligence must prioritize facts and the integrity of the intelligence community above all else."

Spanberger’s decision to seek the governorship is driven by a desire to build on Virginia’s progress. "Virginia has always been a state of progress and opportunity," she said. "I’m running for governor because I believe we can continue to create a future where every Virginian has a chance to thrive."

Acknowledging the challenges of a statewide campaign, Spanberger expressed confidence in her vision and track record. "I know it won’t be easy," she said. "But I’ve spent my career taking on tough fights, from my time in the CIA to my years in Congress. I’m ready to bring that same determination to this race."

Spanberger’s congressional record includes two signature bipartisan efforts that highlight her approach to governance. One such initiative was a congressional stock trading ban co-sponsored with Republican Rep. Chip Roy. 

"This was about ensuring public trust," she said. "We wanted to eliminate even the perception of impropriety, but unfortunately, it didn’t gain the momentum it needed." Another key effort was her co-sponsorship of the Social Security Fairness Act, aimed at protecting benefits for millions of federal employees. "That bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support," Spanberger noted. "Now, it’s in the Senate’s hands, and I’m hopeful it will get across the finish line."

During the interview, she highlighted the bipartisan infrastructure bill as a standout achievement. "That legislation is a perfect example of what can happen when we put politics aside and work together," she said. "It’s delivering real results for Virginians."

Lokay also pressed Spanberger on the current political climate and its impact on her campaign. She responded by emphasizing unity and pragmatic leadership. "Virginians are tired of divisiveness," she said. "They want leaders who will roll up their sleeves and get things done. That’s the kind of governor I aspire to be."

If successful, Spanberger would be the first Democrat to serve as Virginia’s governor since Ralph Northam's term ended in 2022. Democrats have coalesced behind Spanberger, after Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney suspended his own campaign and is now seeking his party's nomination as Lieutenant Governor.  

Republicans have done the same, with current Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears picking up support from key figures like current Gov. Glenn Youngkin and incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares.

In the end, with both major parties throwing resources behind their presumptive frontrunners, Virginia voters may be poised to elect the commonwealth's first female governor.