Virginia is set to swear in its first female governor, with Democrat Abigail Spanberger leading Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears in polls and outspending her seven-to-one.

Spanberger has earned endorsements from the Virginia Police Benevolent Association and former President Barack Obama, while Earle-Sears has backing from the Virginia Beach Police Benevolent Association, 50 individual sheriffs, and support from former President Trump.

The candidates clashed in a single debate, covering issues including education and transgender student policies, with Spanberger emphasizing local decision-making and school safety.

Earle-Sears criticized Spanberger for past education votes and pledged stricter policies on student privacy and sports participation, KATU 2 has reported.

The closely watched race highlights the state’s focus on law enforcement, education, and social policy as Election Day approaches.