For the first time in commonwealth history, both major-party nominees are women: Democratic former congresswoman Abigail Spanberger and Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears. One of them will become Virginia's first female governor, breaking a barrier that has stood since Patrick Henry became the commonwealth's first governor in 1776.

Politicians in Virginia are gearing up for the next election cycle as the candidates have now been confirmed for the race for governor in November.