Spanberger says she's still digesting becoming Virginia's first female governor

Less than two weeks before her Jan. 17 inauguration, Abigail Spanberger said she is still digesting becoming Virginia's first female governor.

Abigail Spanberger says she is still processing what it means to be Virginia's first female governor as she prepares for her inauguration. The Democrat spoke with the Associated Press less than two weeks before the swearing-in, which is scheduled for Jan. 17 outside the Virginia Capitol. She said the campaign was focused on issues facing Virginians and noted reactions from members of the public, including parents and teenagers who were excited by the milestone. Spanberger won the November contest by about 15 points and described priorities she plans to pursue early in her term. What we know: - Spanberger will be sworn in as governor on Jan. 17 outside the Virginia Capitol. - She will be the first woman to serve as Virginia's governor in nearly 250 years. - She defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears by about 15 points in November. - Her stated early priorities include economic relief, tenant protections against evictions, and policies aimed at lowering prescription drug costs. - She said serving in Congress during President Trump's first term taught her there are areas for common ground as well as moments when she would oppose choices she believes would harm Virginia. Summary: Spanberger's upcoming inauguration marks a first in Virginia's history and has prompted public reactions that she says are helping her appreciate the significance. Her immediate agenda emphasizes economic relief, tenant protections, and lower drug costs, and the next formal step is her swearing-in on Jan. 17.