Democrat Abigail Spanberger was sworn in Jan. 17 as Virginia’s first female governor. She took the oath of office around noon, pledging to “work tirelessly” for a more unified Commonwealth. 

Spanberger’s new position was not the only first of the day. Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi became the first Muslim woman elected to statewide office, alongside Jay Jones, now Virginia’s first Black attorney general. 

The traditional exchange of keys to the Executive Mansion took place before the inauguration, marking the transfer of power from outgoing Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin. 

Spanberger delivered a speech on history, hardship and promises before more than 5,000 guests, according to her press office. 

Her campaign focused on overall affordability, advancing public schools and stricter gun laws. She emphasized overcoming division and working together — a theme she repeated in her inaugural address. 

“We do not have to see eye to eye on every issue to stand shoulder to shoulder on others,” Spanberger said. 

She called on Virginians to “write the next chapter of our Commonwealth’s history” and highlighted unity as the core of a democratic state. 

“Because Virginia has always been a place where we confront challenges, where we build coalitions and where we prove that democracy still works,” Spanberger said. 

The new governor listed three main priorities for her administration: affordability, advancing public schools and security. She also plans to address housing and energy costs, strengthen the state’s education system and protect all Virginia residents, including immigrants. 

Spanberger, wearing all white in a nod to Virginia suffragists, said the suffragists “could only dream of a day like today.” She also recognized Virginia’s first Black governor, L. Douglas Wilder, who was in attendance and celebrating his 95th birthday. 

Spanberger recounted her experience in law enforcement and the CIA, which she said gave her insight at both local and national levels. 

“Growing up, my parents always taught me that when faced with something unacceptable, you must speak up,” Spanberger said. “You must take action, right what you believe is wrong, and fix what isn’t working.” 

The inaugural parade after the address featured public safety, military, education and community groups. Multicultural groups also participated, including Virginia Pride and Expomundo USA, an organization celebrating and connecting Latin American cultures. Neither group participated in Youngkin’s inaugural parade. 

“I was not raised in Virginia, but I think it’s really important for my kids to be here just to be part of it as a Virginia citizen,” said Kat Oros, a mother and Virginia Pride member. “It’s so incredible to be reminded of democracy.” 

Expomundo performer Jennifer Ortiz said Spanberger is trying to be more inclusive to represent Virginia’s diverse constituents. 

Attendees expressed excitement about the historic moment and said they look forward to seeing how Spanberger governs. 

Gwen Sarsfield, who started phone banking for Spanberger during her first primary election in 2018, said she knew Spanberger “was going to be someone special.” 

“When I was 10 years old, I used to run home to hear JFK’s press conferences,” Sarsfield said. “I think I just never thought our country would be in this state; but Abigail, honey, she’s a beacon … she will represent us well.” 

Emma Coffey, an attendee who aspires to work in politics, admires Spanberger’s persistence and transparency. 

“It’s a new day for Virginia,” Coffey said. “We have a pretty blue House and Senate and now a blue governor. It’s pretty incredible. I think that we’re going to see immense progress.” 

Attendee Kevin Hickerson criticized the previous administration for prioritizing the wealthy over the needs of Virginians. 

“There’s been a lot of concentration on making sure that the well-heeled in society get an extra $100,000 to a million here,” Hickerson said. He said he believes families and those who struggle daily will be uplifted during Spanberger’s term. 

Spanberger signed her first 10 executive orders after the parade. The directives include identifying ways to reduce living expenses, improve educational instruction, coordinate a statewide response to federal workforce reductions, review appointments to university boards, and implement a nondiscrimination policy across “facets of state government.” Two orders detail state of emergency authority and chief of staff responsibilities. 

Her final directive rescinded Youngkin’s order that directed state and local law enforcement to assist with federal civil immigration enforcement, emphasizing that law enforcement should focus on their core duties to protect public safety. 

Virginia’s first family ended a long day of ceremony with the inaugural ball at Main Street Station. Guests enjoyed Virginia cuisine and music by Charlottesville-based musician Dave Matthews. 

After a weekend of historic events and celebration, Spanberger delivered her first address to the General Assembly on Monday. Her four-year term begins with Democrats holding a governing trifecta. 

She voiced support for four constitutional amendments that will appear on voter ballots this year: access to abortion, restoration of voting rights for the formerly incarcerated, same-sex marriage protection, and redistricting, which may have a spring referendum.