Overview
- Major U.S. outlets reported projected Democratic victories in both gubernatorial contests held on November 4.
- In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger was projected the winner, flipping the governorship from Republican control and positioning her to become the state’s first female governor.
- In New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill was projected to win, keeping the governor’s office in Democratic hands.
- Both candidates were characterized by media reports as moderate political newcomers.
- Pre-election polling showed Virginia favoring the Democrat while New Jersey was closely contested, reinforcing the races’ bellwether framing.