Former President Obama rallies with Spanberger in Norfolk

Nov 2, 2025 - 18:25

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Former President Obama rallies with Spanberger in Norfolk

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Former President Barack Obama held his first political rally in Hampton Roads since 2012 Saturday along with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger.

Former President Barack Obama set to rally with Abigail Spanberger in Norfolk

The rally took place from 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Chartway Arena on the Old Dominion University campus. The announcement of the rally came a few days after Obama endorsed Spanberger.

Spanberger received a rock star reception from the 7,000 people gathered at the arena.

A sentimental Spanberger shared her daughter's desire for them to move to Virginia as a kindergartner. At the time, Spanberger was being relocated in the CIA and had the opportunity to live anywhere.

“Of all the places we could live, she said Virginia," Spanberger said. "We asked, 'Why Virginia' and she said, 'Everyone we love lives in Virginia.'”

Spanberger identified key issues that she would address if she were elected governor of Virginia.

“Virginia deserves a governor with a plan to work every day to lower costs for Virginia families.," she said. "I have my affordable healthcare plan to lower healthcare costs. We will lower energy costs and make it more affordable for Virginians to buy a home, rent a home or stay in their home.”

Spanberger also provided a directive on how urgent the election is.

“When the polls close, Virginia voters can and will send a message amid the recklessness and the heartlessness coming out of Washington," she said. "Virginia will flip statewide seats (in the House of Delegates) from red to blue.”

Spanberger was only half the show. Former President Barack Obama walked on stage to a prolonged applause, which he had to end by holding up his hands to quiet the thousands gathered.

When he spoke, he wasn’t holding anything back. Obama expressed his thoughts on the current state of America.

“We the people" means what it says, that all of us are included. That we are not subjects, we are citizens defined not by race or religion or gender or sexual orientation, but by our commitment to common creed, and a willingness to accept not just the privileges, but the responsibilities that come with that citizenship,” he said.

Obama urged for the audience to support leaders like Spanberger.

“If you believe in that better story of America, don't sit this one out. Vote," Obama said. Vote for leaders like Abigail who believe it too. Vote for leaders who care about your freedoms and who will fight for your rights.”

Courtesy: WAVY Photojournalist Cortez Grayson

Whatever happens Tuesday, it will make history.

"No matter what happens, we will make history," said Old Dominion University junior Naomi Williams. "It is inspiring to see women step up and take control, and it makes somebody who wants to go into law like me to be really inspired."

Obama highlighted Spanberger's commitment to always putting Virginians first, as well as her record of protecting Virginians' fundamental rights, including their voting rights and the right of women to make their own healthcare decisions.

"I think any place where you have people who are potential voters assembled, it would be a good place to be," said Jan Mullis, ODU adjunct professor of history, "but in this case, it’s a good thing getting the youth out to vote and that is a good thing."

ODU student Gabriella Collazo of Virginia Beach said she likes the former president.

“I just like him, I think it is exciting," Collazo said. "It is exciting that a former president is coming to the ODU campus. ... No matter who wins, we are going to have a female governor. I’m so proud. I think it is a great step for woman-kind.”

ODU student Genevieve Collett supports Obamacare.

“I like his character," Collett said. "I kind of think of him as a mediator of sorts. I think he has a good level-headed presence. ... I like that he stabilized health care for people who can't afford it because health care is so expensive.”