There’s a heated race underway in Virginia — one that could etch a new name in America’s political history books. Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, the daughter of Jamaica, and Democrat Abigail Spanberger, a former congresswoman, are going head-to-head for the state’s top seat. Whoever wins will not only make history as Virginia’s first female governor but could also reshape the political narrative for years to come.
From Kingston to Capitol Hill
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in the United States from the age of six, Winsome Earle-Sears carries the story of countless immigrants, one of resilience, ambition, and unwavering belief in the American dream. Her rise from a young Jamaican immigrant to Virginia’s first Black woman elected to statewide office stands as a powerful testament to what the Caribbean diaspora continues to contribute to U.S. politics.
Earle-Sears’s journey hasn’t been ordinary. She served in the United States Marine Corps, earned degrees in English and Organizational Leadership, and became known for her sharp political wit and deeply rooted conservative ideals. Before stepping into the national spotlight, she led a men’s prison ministry and served as director of a women’s homeless shelter, work that reflected her faith-driven commitment to second chances and community service.
A Political Journey of Firsts
In 2002, Winsome Earle-Sears made her first mark in Virginia politics when she was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. Two decades later, she broke barriers again, becoming the first female Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and the first Jamaican-born woman to hold such an office in the United States.
Now, she has her eyes set on another milestone: becoming America’s first Jamaican-born governor.
Working closely with current Governor Glenn Youngkin, Earle-Sears has championed education reform, parental involvement in schools, and veterans’ affairs. She’s also been vocal about women’s safety, cost of living, and small business support — issues she says will define her campaign for governor.
The Road to the Governor’s Mansion
Virginia, one of only two states electing governors in November, has become a political bellwether for the nation.
Early voting has already begun, and Election Day is set for Tuesday, November 4. Analysts say the results could offer clues about America’s political direction ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The race between Winsome Earle-Sears and Abigail Spanberger has been fiery. Their only debate, held at Norfolk State University, saw both women clash over taxes, abortion, immigration, and education.
Earle-Sears, known for her commanding debate style, directly challenged Spanberger on her stance regarding transgender policies in schools — a topic that has sharply divided voters in the state.
“This is not hard,” Earle-Sears said pointedly during the debate. “Are you going to change in a gym where men are nude in the locker rooms? Are you going to do that, Abigail? I don’t think you will.”
Faith, Family, and Fortitude
Behind the political headlines lies a woman who has endured profound personal loss. In 2012, Earle-Sears’s daughter, DeJon, and her two granddaughters were tragically killed in a car crash. She has since spoken openly about the experience, crediting her faith for giving her strength to move forward.
“Pushing through pain,” she once said, “is part of the calling. My daughter and granddaughters are now looking into the face of God.”
That pain has become a quiet fire behind her mission — to protect families, uplift communities, and prove that tragedy can give birth to purpose.
What’s at Stake
If elected, Winsome Earle-Sears would not only become Virginia’s first female governor, but also America’s first Jamaican-born governor — an achievement that would echo across the Caribbean diaspora.
For many Jamaicans at home and abroad, her campaign has become a symbol of pride — proof that the immigrant dream is alive, and that Caribbean voices continue to rise in the corridors of power.
Current polls show a tight race. A Kaplan Strategies poll places Abigail Spanberger ahead by 10 points (51%–41%), while another by Trafalgar Group shows a narrower margin (47.5%–45.3%). With several voters still undecided, the final stretch could hinge on turnout — particularly among independents and suburban families.
A Moment for the Caribbean Diaspora
Across Jamaican and Caribbean communities in the U.S., Earle-Sears’s run has reignited conversations about representation, leadership, and cultural identity. Whether she wins or not, her journey reinforces an undeniable truth:
the Caribbean diaspora continues to shape America’s political landscape — not from the sidelines, but from the frontlines.
As Virginia heads to the polls, all eyes are on Winsome Earle-Sears — the Marine, the mother, the minister, and the history-maker — who could soon add another title to her name: Governor.
