New Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger Faces Backlash From the Right

The former CIA officer and centrist Democrat is making swift changes in her first months in office, drawing criticism from conservatives.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Abigail Spanberger, the new Democratic governor of Virginia, is facing intense criticism from conservatives in her first months in office. The former CIA officer and centrist Democrat has taken swift action on issues like immigration and university leadership, drawing accusations from the right wing that she is "radicalizing" the state. Spanberger says the attacks are a sign of her success in shaking up the political landscape.

Why it matters

Spanberger's victory in the Virginia governor's race was seen as a blueprint for how moderate Democrats can win in swing states. Her early actions in office are testing the limits of bipartisanship and highlighting the growing divide between the party's centrist and progressive wings.

The details

In her first weeks as governor, Spanberger has ended cooperation agreements between Virginia and ICE, signed a bill for an April vote on redrawing the state's congressional districts, and demanded the resignations of five University of Virginia board members who participated in a Trump-backed effort to remove the university's president. Conservatives have lashed out, with commentators like Fox News' Mark Levin accusing Spanberger of "permanently radicalizing" the state and the far-right activist Laura Loomer calling her a "dangerous" "white liberal woman."

  • Spanberger took office as Virginia's governor in January 2026.
  • In her first weeks in office, Spanberger took the actions described in the story.
  • The April vote on redistricting is scheduled for later this year.

The players

Abigail Spanberger

The new Democratic governor of Virginia, who previously served as a CIA officer and centrist member of Congress.

Mark R. Levin

A right-wing commentator on Fox News who has criticized Spanberger.

Laura Loomer

A far-right activist who has attacked Spanberger on social media.

James E. Ryan

The former president of the University of Virginia who was removed in a push by the Trump White House.

Bryce E. Reeves

A Republican state senator in Virginia who has criticized Spanberger's bipartisanship.

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What they’re saying

“She's a 'Bond villain'.”

— Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General, Justice Department Civil Rights Division (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.