By: Maria-Paula

Virginia will make history as Gov.-elect Abigail D. Spanberger is sworn in as the Commonwealth’s 75th governor on the inauguration ceremony  on Saturday, Jan. 17. The event will take place at noon on the South Portico of the Virginia State Capitol Building in Richmond.

Beyond policy, Spanberger’s inauguration carries historic significance, becoming the first woman to hold the office since Virginia’s founding nearly 250 years ago. As Virginia’s first woman governor, her election marked a milestone many see as reflective of the Commonwealth’s changing demographics and evolving leadership landscape. Civic leaders noted that her rise to office may inspire greater participation in public service, particularly among women and young people.

In her acceptance address, Spanberger emphasized unity, affordability, and opportunity, pledging to focus her administration on the everyday challenges facing Virginians.

“This is a moment to move forward together,” she said, outlining a vision centered on lowering costs, strengthening the economy, and delivering practical results for families and businesses.

On affordability for Virginia’s,  the incoming governors agenda is tackling the rising cost of living. Spanberger echoed that her administration plans to prioritize policies aimed at reducing healthcare, housing, and energy costs that have placed increasing pressure on households state-wide.

For many Virginians, particularly working families and seniors, these efforts could translate into lower prescription drug prices, expanded access to affordable housing, and relief from high utility bills. The governor elect pointed at support for transparency in healthcare pricing and programs that encourage energy efficiency to ease long-term expenses.

Spanberger also highlighted economic growth and workforce development as key goals in her government. Building on Virginia’s reputation as a strong state for business, the new administration aims to attract new investment while ensuring workers are prepared for in-demand jobs.

By strengthening partnerships with community colleges, trade schools, and employers, the state also anticipates expanding apprenticeships and skills training, a move supporters say will help create well-paying jobs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, ensuring growth is shared in the Commonwealth.

With commitment to protecting hospitals, supporting healthcare workers, and improving access to care, which advocates say could improve health outcomes while reducing financial strain on families, healthcare access, particularly in rural areas, is expected to be another major focus for the administration.

Spanbergers focus on education also featured prominently in her remarks. The incoming governor pledged to support public schools, teachers, and students, recognizing education as a foundation for long-term economic success and social stability.

As Spanberger prepares to begin her term in office, attention now turns to the General Assembly, where many of her proposals will require legislative support. While challenges remain, supporters say her pragmatic approach and emphasis on affordability and opportunity resonate with voters seeking stability and progress.
The inauguration ceremony is free and open to the public, but because space is limited, tickets are required to get into the seated area on Capitol Square.

To attend the ceremony in person, Virginians needed to enter a ticket lottery through the official inauguration website at spanbergerinauguration.com, which is already closed. Winners were notified and received tickets for the event.