Every election counts. But some do more than others.
And now Donald Trump’s last minute endorsement completely changed this important election.
Trump’s Backing for Virginia’s GOP Gubernatorial Hopeful
Just before Election Day, President Donald Trump revealed his support for Virginia’s Republican Lieutenant Governor, Winsome Earle-Sears.
During a conversation with journalists on Air Force One late Sunday evening, Trump shared his intention to endorse Earle-Sears in her bid for governor against Democrat Abigail Spanberger, a former congresswoman.
“I think the Republican candidate is very good and I think she should win because the Democrat candidate is a disaster,” Trump said.
He mentioned his limited involvement in Virginia’s political contests so far, but highlighted his fondness for the commonwealth and his strong showings there in prior elections. Trump labeled Spanberger as a “disaster,” adding, “I watched her in the debate and she couldn’t answer the most basic question.”
Energy Concerns Take Center Stage
Trump pointed out that energy policies would play a pivotal role in the upcoming contests in Virginia and New Jersey, cautioning that wins for Democrats could spike costs dramatically.
“Your energy [prices are] going to double and triple,” he said, contrasting that outcome with what he predicted under Republican leadership. “If the Republican gets elected, your energy is going be coming down by 70 to 80%.”
Wrapping up the informal chat, he expressed appreciation to the media and urged, “Vote Republican.”
Reactions from Candidates and Debate Spotlights
In response to the endorsement, Earle-Sears conveyed her appreciation in a comment to the Daily Caller, expressing eagerness to collaborate on keeping expenses in check if she wins the governorship.
“I am deeply grateful for President Trump’s support and his direct encouragement to voters in Virginia to vote Republican,” she stated. “We must ensure Virginia is the best place to live, work, and raise a family, and with President Trump, I’ll fight to keep energy costs low, keep our families safe, and defend our commonsense values.”
Earlier, Trump had thrown his weight behind Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares in his reelection effort. That endorsement appeared on Truth Social on October 5, shortly following the emergence of disturbing 2022 texts from Democratic challenger Jay Jones.
Spanberger’s struggles with direct responses were evident in the October 9 debate, where she avoided a straightforward yes-or-no on continuing to back Jones amid the text controversy.
She also evaded a query regarding permitting biological males in women’s facilities.
