Democrat Abigail Spanberger is refusing to answer direct questions about whether she supports biological males accessing women’s bathrooms, locker rooms, or participating in women’s sports. The issue, which played a key role in Republican Glenn Youngkin’s victory in 2021, has reemerged as a flashpoint in Virginia’s 2025 governor’s race. Republican Lt. Governor Winsome Sears is using Spanberger’s silence to draw sharp contrasts on cultural and parental rights issues.
When asked by a reporter if she supports males identifying as females entering women’s private spaces, Spanberger avoided giving a yes or no. Instead, she focused on federal law, executive orders, and judicial interpretations of Title IX. She claimed that past Republican efforts, including those by President Trump, endangered education funding over similar issues. Spanberger did not clarify whether she personally agrees with allowing biological males in female-only spaces.
Sears quickly seized on the moment. Referencing her role as a mother and Marine, she accused Spanberger of dodging a simple question that matters to Virginia families. Sears highlighted the importance of protecting girls’ privacy, safety, and fair competition in sports. She emphasized that voters deserve straightforward answers on issues impacting their children.
The contrast is stark. While Spanberger leans on legal nuance and federal bureaucracy, Sears speaks directly to parents who want common-sense boundaries in schools and public facilities. The issue is resonating with suburban voters who helped swing the state red in 2021. Political analysts note that Democrats often avoid the bathroom and sports debate due to internal divisions and fear of alienating the progressive base.
Spanberger’s evasion reflects broader Democratic discomfort with gender-related policies. Her campaign has yet to present a clear stance, even as pressure mounts. Meanwhile, Sears is campaigning hard on protecting women’s spaces and parental rights—issues that continue to energize conservative voters across Virginia.
With early voting approaching, the bathroom debate may prove to be a decisive factor. Voters are watching closely to see who will stand firm on issues of privacy, safety, and truth.
