Spanberger Leads Virginia Governor Race by 7 Points, Earle-Sears Closing Gap

Democrat Abigail Spanberger leads Republican Winsome Earle-Sears by seven points (46%-39%) in the Virginia governor's race according to a Roanoke College Poll, although the gap has narrowed since May when Spanberger held a 17-point lead. The poll, surveying 702 Virginians with a margin of error around 4.3%, also shows Democrat Ghazala Hashmi leading Republican John Reid in the lieutenant governor race and Democrat Jay Jones ahead of Republican incumbent Jason Miyares for attorney general, though both are within the margin of error. Voter enthusiasm remains moderate, with 76% very certain of their choice for governor and 50% very enthusiastic about voting. Inflation is the top issue for 54% of likely voters, followed by crime, abortion, jobs, and gun control. President Donald Trump's job approval in Virginia stands at 41%, up from May, while Governor Glenn Youngkin holds a 50% approval rating. Democrats are favored on issues like health care and education, whereas Republicans are preferred on immigration, inflation, and fiscal matters, reflecting a politically competitive environment as election day approaches.