Spanberger Campaigns in Martinsville, Outlines Vision for Virginia

Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic hopeful for governor of Virginia, brought her campaign to southern Virginia last week, making a stop in Martinsville on January 19. Spanberger addressed a crowd at the Virginia Museum of Natural History during an event organized by the Martinsville Henry County Democratic Committee.

Spanberger, a former CIA officer who worked undercover for several years, shared how her family inspired her move to Virginia. After living on the West Coast, it was her then five-year-old daughter who suggested relocating to be closer to family in the Commonwealth.

Spanberger emphasized her commitment to improving education in Virginia. “I want to put us on a path to having the best public schools in the country,” she said, addressing challenges in teacher recruitment and retention. Spanberger stressed the need for proactive measures, saying the state must tackle the issue “head-on” to ensure the stability and quality of the public education system.

Housing was another key issue Spanberger highlighted, calling it a crisis that demands immediate attention. “We can’t wait another fifteen years to fix it,” she said.

She also spoke about the high cost of prescription drugs, particularly for veterans. Referencing her role in helping pass the PACT Act, Spanberger emphasized her dedication to reducing healthcare costs for those who have served the country.

Spanberger celebrated Virginia’s position as a state that has maintained access to reproductive healthcare following the 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade. “We are the only state in the south that since the Dobbs decision, hasn’t further restricted access to reproductive healthcare for women,” she said, underscoring her belief that it’s not the government’s place to dictate women’s healthcare decisions.

Spanberger voiced her concern about gun violence, noting its devastating impact on children. “We live in a nation where the number one killer of kids is gun violence,” she said, advocating for policies to reduce such tragedies.

Spanberger recounted her entry into politics, describing how she flipped a historically Republican district in her congressional race. “It was a long-time Republican-held district,” she said, recalling how her opponent had won by 16 points in the previous election. By focusing on grassroots efforts, Spanberger was able to connect with voters and secure the seat.

Her motivation to enter politics stemmed from observing what she described as a shift toward divisive and fear-based tactics. “I saw this focus on division, and anger, and fear-based politics. A focus on grandstanding and not governing,” she said.

Spanberger pledged to foster a more inclusive Virginia. “My focus as governor will be to ensure that Virginia is ever on that path to being a stronger, safer, more inclusive community, where people want to come, want to live.”

Martinsville Mayor LC Jones, council member Rayshaun Gravely, and county school board member Teddy Martin were among the attendees who welcomed Spanberger. Melody Cartwright made the introductions.

“We need Abigail Spanberger for governor, to be the first female, and the best governor ever,” said Cartwright, who is running to represent Virginia’s 48th district.

Spanberger faces Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears in the 2025 gubernatorial race. Both women, known for their close election margins, are expected to bring dynamic and competitive campaigns to the race. The election promises to shape the future of Virginia’s leadership, potentially making history with its outcome.