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32m ago

Abigail Spanberger Sworn In as Virginia’s First Woman Governor

The transfer completes Democrats’ return to power in Richmond, setting up early action on schools, affordability, energy policy plus redistricting.

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA - JANUARY 17: Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger is sworn into office by the Honorable William Mims, Senior Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia, at the Virginia State Capitol January 17, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia. Spanberger is the first woman elected to the Commonwealth of Virginia’s highest office. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
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Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger arrives for inaugural ceremonies at the Capitol in Richmond Va., Saturday Jan. 17, 2026. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, Pool)

Overview

  • Spanberger took the oath at noon on the South Portico of the State Capitol in a light rain, followed by a parade through Capitol Square.
  • Ghazala F. Hashmi became lieutenant governor and Jay Jones attorney general, marking milestone firsts for a Muslim woman in U.S. statewide office and for Virginia’s first Black elected AG.
  • Spanberger, a former CIA case officer and U.S. representative, succeeded Republican Glenn Youngkin after defeating Winsome Earle-Sears in November.
  • In her inaugural address, she criticized Washington policies under President Trump, highlighted rising costs for families, and appealed for unity in governing.
  • With Democrats now steering state government, party leaders signaled coordination on education, affordability and energy priorities, including a push to redraw the congressional map before the midterms.