As we approach the 2025 Virginia state elections, the future of the Commonwealth is poised for change.
In the governor's race, incumbent Governor Glenn Youngkin (R) is term-limited, and the contest to succeed him is intensifying. Democratic candidate and former U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger (D) is facing off against the current Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears. This high-stakes race will have significant implications for the future direction of state policy and may serve as a bellwether for the 2026 federal elections.
Leading up to Election Day on November 4th, the Institute for Democratic Engagement and Pluralism will provide essential voting information and impartial insights into the gubernatorial race, the House of Delegates, and the Senate contests. Our goal is to empower the VCU community and the broader public with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about Virginia’s future.
Expert Analysis
Oct. 1, 2025
VCU experts available to discuss Virginia election topics
Political science educators Alex Keena and Jatia Wrighten can offer analysis and perspective on voting, voter turnout, campaign finance and more.
Aug. 22, 2025
Are women better lawmakers than men? A nuanced yes, VCU researcher finds
However, women serving on less professional state legislatures struggle to overcome lower-ranked committee assignments and entrenched sexism.
April 28, 2025
Class of 2025: VCU Votes co-leader Merilyn Arikkat drives civic engagement among fellow students
The biology major and aspiring doctor is among national honorees for championing democracy.
The Races
Governor of Virginia
Lieutenant Governor of Virginia
Attorney General
Virginia House of Delegates
We have included all of the Richmond metro area Delegate races. For those districts where only one candidate is listed, the incumbent is running unopposed. For information about the remaining races, please visit the Virginia Public Access Project webpage.
Get Informed
- Virginia Public Access Project - A brief overview of Virginia state elections and other resources.
- I Side With - A survey tool to see how closely you match candidates on issues
- Open Secrets - Campaign ad data
- Sabato's Crystal Ball - Analysis from The Center for Politics at the University of Virginia
In the Media
- Spanberger’s Chances of Beating Earle-Sears Two Weeks Before Election—Polls, 10/21/25, Newsweek
- The latest campaign finance numbers show a tightening race for governor, 10/17/25, Radio IQ
- Questionable gifts cloud Earle-Sears’ governor bid, 10/09/25, Richmond Free Press