Virginia Democrat Spanberger Opposes Full Right-to-Work Repeal, Supports Reform

Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominee for Virginia governor, has stated she would not support a full repeal of Virginia’s right-to-work law, although she acknowledges the statute is old and could require future reforms. This stance contrasts with other Democrats in the lieutenant governor's race who advocate for repeal. Spanberger emphasized her support for labor and the state's strong economy but distanced herself from completely eliminating the law, which bars compulsory union membership or dues payments. Her Republican opponent, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, strongly supports maintaining the right-to-work law, arguing it is vital for Virginia's economic competitiveness and job creation. Earle-Sears and her campaign accused Spanberger of dishonesty, pointing to Spanberger’s past federal co-sponsorship of the PRO Act, which aimed to repeal right-to-work laws nationwide, suggesting Spanberger might pursue repeal if elected. The debate over right-to-work remains a divisive and central issue in the Virginia gubernatorial race, reflecting broader tensions between labor interests and business communities.