‘Chasing History: The Race for Governor’

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) -- The special program "Chasing History: The Race for Governor" -- which you can watch in full in the player above -- features in-depth interviews with both candidates for Virginia governor: Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Winsome Earle-Sears.

The one-hour program aims to provide the community with a unique perspective on the candidates, focusing not only on their policies, but also on how their personal lives have influenced their political decisions.

Both candidates were interviewed at events in Virginia, with Spanberger visiting an organization that helps veterans learn computer skills and Earle-Sears attending a VFW in McLean.

"So I'm really excited to be here at the space Tech for Troops," she said. "It's an organization that I first became aware of when I was first elected to Congress."

Earle-Sears expressed her connection with veterans at the VFW event in McLean.

"Well, you know, I am a Marine -- and you know what they say: 'Once a Marine, always a Marine.' And this is my people," she said.

Both candidates discussed key issues that affect Virginia residents, including the car tax. Spanberger acknowledged the hurdles in repealing the car tax, while Earle-Sears claimed that Virginia has the funds to address the issue.

The interviews also touched on personal experiences that have shaped their views. Earle-Sears shared a poignant moment from her past, reflecting on the loss of her daughter and granddaughters in a car accident, while Spanberger spoke about her early jobs and their impact on her understanding of labor and workers.

The program covers a range of topics, including the impact of federal employment on Virginia's economy and personal stories that have influenced the candidates' policy positions.

"Chasing History: The Race for Governor" first aired at 7 p.m. on July 24, 2025. You can watch it on-demand in the video player on this page.