By Rob Rizzo

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Lowering costs for families, attracting new investment and making Virginia the top state for business again.

Wednesday, Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger outlined her plan to strengthen the Commonwealth’s economy during her appearance before the Hampton Roads Chamber in Virginia Beach.

Spanberger, the keynote speaker at the 2025 annual meeting of the Hampton Roads Chamber, outlined her incoming administration’s plan for the future.

“As you all know, Hampton Roads continues to be a nationwide leader in advanced manufacturing capabilities, maritime industries, and defense innovation,” Spanberger said. “None of this tremendous success would be possible without the contributions of everyone here today. … Hampton Roads continues to be a nationwide leader in advanced manufacturing capabilities, maritime industries, and defense innovation. None of this tremendous success would be possible without the contributions of everyone here today.”

Stressing stability and certainty, Spanberger addressed the crowd of business leaders, touching on the high cost of housing, healthcare and energy.

“I hear from families in every corner of our Commonwealth who are concerned about the cost and want to be confident that they can continue to call Virginia home, raise their children here and continue to support their families without going into massive debt,” Spanberger said.

And Spanberger highlighted her administration’s plan to grow the economy and improve education.

“Virginians did send a message this November,” Spanberger said. “They want statewide leaders focused on getting our economy on track, creating more opportunities and jobs for our citizens, making Virginia more affordable and dealing with the challenges coming out of Washington.”

Spanberger’s speech lasted about 20 minutes and ended with an applause. She will be sworn in next month in Richmond as the 75th governor of the Commonwealth. She’ll also be the first woman to hold that position.