Spanberger Hits Historically Low Approval Rating Just 80 Days Into Term as Virginia Governor

RICHMOND, Va. — Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger is posting one of the lowest early-term approval ratings of any Virginia governor in more than 30 years, according to a new poll released April 6, 2026.

The Washington Post / George Mason University Schar School poll found Spanberger’s job approval at 47%, with 46% of Virginia voters disapproving of her performance. The survey was conducted March 26–31, 2026, among 1,003 registered voters and has a margin of error of ±3.5%.

This marks a notably weak start for a new governor in a state that has historically given incoming executives higher marks in their first few months. Spanberger campaigned as a moderate Democrat focused on bipartisanship, education, and fiscal responsibility, but voter sentiment has soured quickly.

The decline is linked to several policy reversals and controversial decisions. During her campaign, Spanberger promised to protect parental rights in schools and avoid “woke” policies, yet her administration has advanced progressive education initiatives and resisted greater transparency on curriculum and gender issues. She also pledged not to raise taxes, but critics point to budget proposals that include significant spending increases.

The sharpest backlash has centered on her support for a Democratic-led congressional redistricting plan that Republicans have called an aggressive gerrymander aimed at maximizing Democratic seats in the 2026 midterms. Many voters see the maps as a betrayal of her campaign promises of fair and bipartisan governance.

The poll also showed Republicans holding clear advantages over Democrats on key issues such as the economy, border security, and education.

With Virginia’s off-year elections approaching, the weak early numbers represent a significant challenge for Spanberger and Virginia Democrats as they seek to maintain control of the governorship and state legislature.