By Ryan Belmore

Moms Demand Action officially endorsed Democratic nominee Abigail Spanberger for Virginia Governor at a rally in Alexandria today (April 10). The event at the Oswald Durant Center drew a couple hundred attendees showing support for the congressional representative’s gubernatorial campaign.

The endorsement comes as Spanberger continues to build momentum in her bid to become Virginia’s next governor. Gun safety advocacy is emerging as a central theme of her campaign.

“We’re proud to stand with Abigail Spanberger today and throughout her campaign,” said Shantell Rock, a Moms Demand Action volunteer addressing the crowd. “Her commitment to common-sense gun legislation aligns perfectly with our mission to protect Virginia families.”

The rally featured several prominent speakers, including Sheriff Stacey Kincaid from Fairfax County and Alexandria Sheriff Sean Casey. Both endorsed Spanberger for Governor and emphasized the importance of electing officials who prioritize public safety.

“As law enforcement, we need partners in government who understand the complex challenges we face regarding gun violence,” Casey told attendees. “Representative Spanberger has consistently demonstrated that understanding.”

Grace Vareghuse, who goes to Hayfield Secondary School, shared her perspective on growing up in an era of school shootings and active shooter drills.

“Students like me shouldn’t have to worry about gun violence when we’re trying to get an education,” Vareghuse said. “We need leaders who will take action to keep us safe.”

Delegate Atoosa Reaser spoke about legislative efforts to address gun violence in Virginia, praising Spanberger’s record on the issue during her time in Congress.

“Abigail has been a champion for reasonable gun safety measures that protect Second Amendment rights while keeping dangerous weapons out of the wrong hands,” Reaser said. “That’s exactly the approach Virginia needs from its next governor.”

In an interview with ALXnow, Angela Ferrell-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action, explained why the organization endorsed Spanberger.

“Abigail Spanberger has consistently stood up for the safety of Virginia families throughout her career,” Ferrell-Zabala told ALXnow. “Her background in law enforcement and national security gives her a unique perspective on how to address gun violence effectively.”

Ferrell-Zabala cited Alexandria’s history of advocacy for gun violence prevention as one reason for holding the endorsement rally in the city.

“Alexandria has been at the forefront of community-based efforts to reduce gun violence,” she said. “The city has implemented innovative programs and policies that serve as models for other communities across Virginia.”

The endorsement from Moms Demand Action represents a significant boost for Spanberger’s campaign, bringing with it a network of grassroots volunteers committed to gun violence prevention.

“Our volunteers are ready to knock on doors, make phone calls, and do whatever it takes to elect Abigail Spanberger,” Rock told the crowd. “We know she’ll fight for the common-sense policies that keep our communities safe.”

Spanberger, accepting the endorsement, outlined her vision for addressing gun violence in Virginia through a comprehensive approach that includes enhanced background checks, support for mental health services, and community-based violence intervention programs.

“This isn’t about taking away anyone’s rights,” Spanberger said. “It’s about responsible governance that protects all Virginians while respecting our constitutional freedoms.”

The candidate highlighted her connections to Alexandria, noting several community initiatives she’s supported during her time in Congress that directly benefit the city’s residents.

“Alexandria exemplifies what we can achieve when community members, law enforcement, and elected officials work together toward common goals,” Spanberger said. “That’s the collaborative approach I’ll bring to the governor’s office.”

The endorsement rally in Alexandria marks the beginning of what Moms Demand Action describes as an intensive campaign effort focused on gun violence prevention as a key election issue.

“Today is just the start,” Ferrell-Zabala said. “We’re building a movement that will carry Abigail Spanberger to victory and help create a safer Virginia for all families.”

The Virginia gubernatorial election will take place in November. Spanberger will face Republican nominee Winsome Earle-Sears, who is currently Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor.