Abigail Spanberger is widely reported to have won the Virginia governor debate held on October 9, 2025. Spanberger was seen as presenting a clear vision for lowering costs, strengthening the economy, and protecting reproductive freedoms in Virginia. In contrast, her Republican opponent, Winsome Earle- Sears, was criticized for frequently interrupting Spanberger (over 60 times), coming across as unhinged, and defending unpopular positions including extreme abortion restrictions. Commentators and campaign representatives described Spanberger's performance as steady and decisive, while Earle-Sears' aggressive debating style and alignment with Donald Trump were seen negatively by many observers.
Key points include Spanberger focusing on practical solutions for Virginians and criticizing Earle-Sears for supporting policies that have hurt Virginia's economy. Earle-Sears did not receive an endorsement from President Trump at the time, despite claiming she would accept it. Overall, Spanberger emerged as the clear winner by consensus in this high-stakes gubernatorial debate.