Winsome Sears, the current Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, stands poised to potentially etch her name into the annals of American history. Should she win the gubernatorial election next year, she would become the nation’s first Black female governor, simultaneously shattering another glass ceiling as Virginia’s first female governor. However, Sears deflects attention from these historical implications, emphasizing her focus on improving Virginia and ensuring equal opportunities for all its residents. Her narrative is one of a remarkable journey, starting from her childhood immigration from Jamaica to the United States, serving in the Marines, and ascending the ranks of Virginia politics.
Sears’s story is deeply intertwined with the American dream. Her father’s arrival in the U.S., just days before Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, symbolizes the pursuit of opportunity and a better life. Sears emphasizes the stark contrast between the limited possibilities for Black individuals during her father’s time and her current position as second-in-command in the former Confederate capital. This juxtaposition underscores the progress made while also highlighting the ongoing pursuit of equality and opportunity for all. Sears positions herself as a symbol of hope and resilience, emphasizing overcoming challenges rather than succumbing to victimhood.
A crucial element in Sears’s gubernatorial aspirations is the unwavering support of the outgoing Governor, Glenn Youngkin. Youngkin, who himself made history by breaking a twelve-year Republican drought in Virginia’s gubernatorial elections, is barred from seeking immediate re-election due to state law. He has wholeheartedly endorsed Sears, viewing her as the ideal successor to carry forward his agenda. Sears underscores their shared vision and her commitment to continuing the work initiated by Youngkin, including deregulation, educational reform, and fostering economic growth.
The relationship between Sears and former President Donald Trump adds another layer of complexity to her political trajectory. Initially critical of Trump following the 2022 midterm elections, Sears described him as a liability. She stated her intention to remain neutral in the 2024 Republican presidential primary, citing concerns about his rhetoric. However, a shift occurred following an assassination attempt against Trump, which prompted a change in his tone that resonated with Sears. This renewed support, however, hasn’t been universally welcomed within the Republican party, with some figures, such as conservative radio host John Fredericks, expressing skepticism and criticizing Sears’s loyalty to Trump. Sears acknowledges the potential benefits of Trump’s support but emphasizes her focus on Virginia’s needs, suggesting a pragmatic approach to their political relationship.
The 2025 gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a significant political contest. Sears’s most prominent opponent is likely to be Democratic Representative Abigail Spanberger, a former CIA officer who has already declared her candidacy. While this matchup is anticipated, other potential Democratic contenders, such as Congressman Bobby Scott, may enter the fray. Sears expresses confidence in facing any challenger, emphasizing the strength of her policies and her proven track record. This sets the stage for a potentially closely fought election, with both candidates bringing distinct experiences and perspectives to the forefront.
The political landscape surrounding Sears’s candidacy is further complicated by analyses of her ideological positioning and potential vulnerabilities. While Youngkin dismisses claims that Sears is too conservative for Virginia voters, highlighting her “common-sense” approach, the Democratic Governors Association has seized upon internal Republican criticisms to paint her as out of touch with mainstream Virginia. They point to her stances on issues like abortion and IVF as evidence of her right-wing leanings. Sears, however, counters these attacks by emphasizing her faith and commitment to public service, portraying herself as driven by principle rather than political expediency. This back-and-forth underscores the potential fault lines in the upcoming election, with both parties attempting to frame the narrative to their advantage.
