F ormer Representative Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat, defeated Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, a Republican, in Virginia’s gubernatorial race, bringing the governorship back into Democratic control. Both CNN and NBC called the race just before 8 p.m. ET.

Democrats gain control in Virginia as Abigail Spanberger defeats Winsome Earle-Sears, while Republicans lose power in Richmond after government shutdown.

Democrat Abigail Spanberger cruised to victory Tuesday night and could end up challenging some of the biggest win margins in recent Virginia governor elections. She also kept alive the trend of state voters opting for the party that doesn’t hold the White House.

Spanberger, 46, and Sherrill, 53, have known each other for years. The two women lived together on Capitol Hill while serving as freshmen members of Congress after winning their respective elections in 2018, according to CNN.

Governor Glenn Youngkin discussed how he plans to pass the baton of leadership for Virginia to Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger.

In their victory speeches, Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger reminded us that ambition doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens with family support, messy bedrooms, and a lot of love. When New Jersey Governor-elect Sherrill took the stage on election night,