Democratic Hopeful Abigail Spanberger Strives for Virginia Governorship While Balancing Family Life
This story first appeared in Dogwood
Abigail Spanberger, a Democratic candidate for governor in Virginia, is not just focused on securing the governorship this November 4. Her role as a mother to three daughters remains central to her life.
Spanberger and her husband, Adam, have three daughters: Catherine, a sixth grader; Charlotte, in ninth grade; and Claire, a high school senior. The family is rallying behind Spanberger as she competes against Republican nominee Winsome Earle-Sears.
The candidate’s campaign is deeply rooted in her commitment to enhance the lives of Virginia’s families. Her family’s support has been indispensable throughout her political journey.
While contemplating a run for governor, Spanberger, then a three-term representative of the 7th District, sought the blessing of her daughters.
“I had some really thoughtful conversations with my oldest daughter, who was very, very sweet,” Spanberger shared with Dogwood. “And when we were talking and having family discussions about, ‘What do you think about this? This would be disruptive to all our lives,’ she said that she really wants Virginia to have a very good governor who cares about kids and focuses on education. And she said, ‘I think you would be a very good governor.’”
Her daughter added: “So while it would be weird to have my mom be governor, we need a good governor, and you’d be a good governor, so I think you should do it.”
Claire pointed out that her mom was already used to being recognized in public due to her role as a representative. “It just means that there are more Targets where you might get recognized.”
Spanberger values her daughter’s “very, very sweet perspective,” acknowledging that her congressional role has led to public recognition, such as when meeting constituents during family outings.
Juggling Family and Political Aspirations
Despite disruptions to their family routine, Spanberger reports that her daughters have been “very, very supportive” of her gubernatorial campaign.
“So far, so good,” she stated. “They think it’s been an interesting adventure.”
Her journey into politics began as a former CIA intelligence officer, taking on Tea Party Republican Dave Brat in the 2018 congressional election. A key focus was protecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) from being overturned by the Republican-led House under then-President Donald Trump.
Spanberger’s win over Brat by 6,800 votes marked her as the first woman to represent the 7th District, supported by her daughters who accompanied her on campaign trails.
Her daughters, familiar with the political scene, have even been part of memorable moments, such as Catherine charming the audience during Spanberger’s victory speech. An onlooker tweeted: “The strength of a woman is simply miraculous! Congresswoman-elect Abigail Spanberger rocking motherhood while giving her victory speech!”
Spanberger emphasizes the importance of family time, crediting her husband Adam for being “a wonderful partner in all of this, a wonderful parent.”
Her leisure moments with family often include playing Ticket to Ride, although she admits, “I usually lose quite terribly whenever I play.” Another quirky favorite is peanut butter and pickle sandwiches.
Despite the political spotlight, her daughters experience a “normal” life, attending public school just like their parents did.
Motherhood Influences Spanberger’s Policy Priorities
Spanberger’s parenting role shapes her focus on enhancing public education, curbing gun violence, and safeguarding reproductive rights in Virginia.
She recalls a school visit where a seventh grader inquired about the anxiety induced by lockdown drills, highlighting the adult responsibility to protect children.
Spanberger advocates for firearm regulations, including safe storage, red flag laws, waiting periods, and magazine capacity limits.
Her commitment to education involves addressing teacher shortages and ensuring student success post-graduation. She envisions a Virginia governed with a focus on educational improvements rather than divisive social issues.
Her advocacy extends to reproductive rights, especially relevant as Virginia considers enshrining these rights in the state constitution.
Driven by a vision of improved lives for Virginians, Spanberger continues to intertwine her political ambition with her personal life.
On International Women’s Day, she expressed pride in her daughters on Instagram, stating: “I’m proud of my three daughters. They are strong, they are kind, they are curious, and they have bright futures. As Virginia’s next governor, I will make sure that all young women and girls have the opportunities they need to succeed.”
—
Read More Kitchen Table News
