WASHINGTON, 5 November (H.S.): In a significant political test for President Donald Trump's second term, Democrats celebrated a major victory on Tuesday as former congresswoman Abigail Spanberger won the closely watched Virginia governor's race.
The election was one of several key contests across the United States, including a heated mayoral race in New York City and gubernatorial elections in New Jersey, that provided the first major gauge of the nation's political mood since the last presidential election.
Spanberger Makes History in Virginia
Democrat Abigail Spanberger, a former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman, defeated Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears to become Virginia's first female governor. The race, in a state that has often served as a national political bellwether, was seen as a potential indicator for the 2026 midterm elections.
Spanberger's campaign focused heavily on the economy and affordability, a message that resonated with voters, including the many federal workers in the state affected by the Trump administration's policies and a recent government shutdown. Her win flips the governor's mansion from Republican to Democratic control, following four years under Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Contentious Mayoral Race in New York
Meanwhile, in New York City, polls closed on a contentious mayoral election featuring 34-year-old Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, independent and former governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa. The race gained national attention, particularly after President Trump threatened to cut federal funding to the city if Mamdani, who was vying to be the youngest mayor in a century, were to win.
Mamdani's platform centered on issues of affordable housing and improving the quality of life for the working class.
Other Elections to Watch
New Jersey: Voters also cast their ballots for governor, with Democrat Mikie Sherrill facing off against Republican Jack Ciattarelli.
California: A special election was held on Proposition 50, a proposal to redraw the state's congressional districts to favor Democrats, a move seen as a strategic counter to Republican redistricting efforts in other states.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
