The debate that took place last night on October 9, 2025, was the Virginia gubernatorial debate between Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle-Sears. Abigail Spanberger was widely viewed as the clear winner of this debate. Spanberger presented a clear and measured vision focused on lowering costs, growing the economy, and strengthening schools, while Earle-Sears was notably aggressive, interrupting Spanberger over 60 times and defending controversial positions, including support for a six-week abortion ban with no exceptions. Earle-Sears was criticized for her performance, which many described as disqualifying and unhinged, and she struggled to defend the Trump-backed agenda that has reportedly hurt Virginia’s economy. Spanberger's performance was praised for focusing on practical issues important to Virginians.
There was also a final debate in New Jersey on October 8, 2025, between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli. It was more contentious and involved bitter exchanges over issues like Trump's policies, opioid-related controversies, and local governance, with no clear winner declared as the focus was mostly on local issues and allegations rather than debate performance.
In summary, Abigail Spanberger won the Virginia gubernatorial debate last night decisively. The New Jersey governor debate happened a day earlier and was more contentious with no definitive winner indicated from the sources.
