It took 75 governors to elect a woman. Spanberger will soon be at Virginia's helm

Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger poses for a portrait during an interview in Richmond, Va., on Tuesday, Jan 13, 2026. Spanberger will break decades of tradition during her inauguration on Saturday by not wearing a morning suit worn by male governors before her.

Abigail Spanberger, a former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman, is breaking long-held traditions on inauguration day. She says she wants her swearing-in to showcase the state's modern vibrancy.

(Image credit: Tyrone Turner)