Obama to Rally for Democrats in NJ, Virginia

Former President Barack Obama will headline Nov. 1 rallies for Democratic gubernatorial nominees Abigail Spanberger in Norfolk, Virginia, and Mikie Sherrill in Newark, New Jersey, ahead of the Nov. 4 elections. Spanberger, a former CIA officer and congresswoman, is running against Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle‑Sears, a Marine veteran backed by President Trump, who has called Spanberger “a disaster.” Sherrill is competing against Republican former Assembly member Jack Ciattarelli, who is also supported by Trump. Both appearances come after recent endorsements of the candidates and are intended to energize voters in two closely watched, competitive odd‑year contests seen as a barometer for sentiment ahead of the 2026 midterms. Democrats say Obama’s late swing will help mobilize the base and defend his signature Affordable Care Act legacy amid ongoing healthcare and federal budget fights.