By Rachel Tillapaugh

ROANOKE, Va. (WSET) — Democratic Representative Abigail Spanberger confirmed she was running for governor back in November.

On Sunday, she was in the Star City hearing from folks and sharing her dreams.

U of L Political Expert Dr. David Richards said Rep. Spanberger has a good chance to get the democratic nomination.

“Really Spanberger is the obvious lead on the Democratic side for governor. She has the name recognition, is a fairly popular democrat, especially in her district,” Dr. Richards said.

And that campaigning early has its benefits.

“Election cycles have gotten a lot longer and you need to raise money, you need to get the word out, and people need to hear what you have to say,” Richards said.

Spanberger said she is ready to trade in her congressional seat and serve as the commonwealth’s next governor.

“Many people are excited about the future of Virginia, that’s why I’m running for governor,” Spanberger said.

The Mayor of Richmond, Levar Stony, is the other declared candidate for the race but, Spanberger said she has experience on her side.

“I have a history of winning tough elections, I love to campaign, and meet people and listen to the challenges and successes that they are facing,” Spanberger said.

Spanberger has been a us rep. for three terms., which Richards said could help with her campaign.

“She has been in the legislature and knows how it works. She brings that insider knowledge of that all works,” Richards said.

Overall Spanberger plans to tackle issues that Virginians care about.

“The number one thing I hear, across our communities, is challenges related to our educational system,” Spanberger said.

The governor’s race will be held in November 2025.

Merle Rutledge is the only Republican candidate to throw their name in the running.

In previous elections, Rutledge lost a 2023 republican primary to represent Virginia’s 18th senate district.