Democratic gubernatorial candidate stops in Hampton Roads on “Span Virginia Bus Tour”

NORFOLK, Va. — Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger stopped in Hampton Roads Saturday as part of her “Span Virginia Bus Tour.”

Spanberger is traveling across the Commonwealth, speaking with Virginians about why she believes she should be elected governor. 

She stopped in Norfolk to connect with veterans and outline what she’ll do for them if elected. 

Hampton Roads is home to the 12th largest veteran population in the nation, according to the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission. As an Army brat herself, Spanberger says it was a honor to host the “Veterans for Spanberger” event in Norfolk. 

“The place where we are today has such a proud history and tradition of military service. For generations, Virginians have left these shores to answer the call to serve,” said Spanberger during opening remarks. 

Spanberger wrapped up her multi-day, 40-city “Span Virginia Bus Tour” in Norfolk. 

Democratic candidate for Attorney General, Jay Jones, as well as Democratic lieutenant governor candidate Ghazala Hashmi were also in attendance Saturday afternoon.

A spokesperson with Spanberger’s campaign says the candidate is outlining her vision to establish her Affordable Virginia Plan for all Virginians, including veterans of the armed forces. One of her top priorities is to establish more reasonable housing costs for veterans. 

“As governor, I will work to lower housing costs, making our Commonwealth an affordable place to live. A long-term home for those who are raising a family or looking to put down roots when they exit the military,” said Spanberger. 

Caitlin and Dan Goodale-Porter tell 13News Now they served for more than 20 years each and are dedicated to protecting veterans’ rights. 

“We are two of the veterans who initially started fighting for the Virginia Military Survivors & Dependents Education Program,” said Goodale-Porter. 

So, they drove from Stafford to show support for Spanberger. 

“With someone like Abigail Spanberger in the governor’s mansion, we hope to have an ally,” said Goodale-Porter. 

At Saturday’s event, Spanberger also says she will prioritize lowering veteran homelessness and addressing mental health disparities—issues she says American politicians should never put on the back burner. 

Republican gubernatorial candidate Winsome Earle-Sears is also on the campaign trail. 

She is set to appear alongside Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Attorney General Jason Miyares and Republican Lt. Governor candidate John Reid at a campaign even in Vienna on Tuesday.