Abigail Davis Spanberger was sworn in as Virginia's 75th and first female governor. Spanberger's inauguration was part of a Democratic sweep that included the state's first Black attorney general and first Muslim lieutenant governor. In her speech, the new governor called for unity while also criticizing federal policies from Washington.

Virginia joins six other states with pending sweepstakes casino bans in 2026 while revisiting a proposal to authorize up to 15 real money online casinos.

Spanberger, a former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman, is breaking long-held traditions on inauguration day. She says she wanted her swearing-in to showcase the state's modern vibrancy.

Virginia has introduced a sweepstakes casino ban. HB161 could outlaw sweepstakes casinos, while also legalizing internet gaming via the Virginia State Lottery.

UNC basketball will try to show its growth on the road in a top-25 matchup at Virginia. Here's our preview, some players to watch and a prediction.

How did UVA handle the transfer portal this year?

Spanberger also signed an executive order that rescinds a directive instructing state law enforcement and corrections officers to help with immigration enforcement.

The proposal would finally establish a statewide cannabis marketplace, addressing years of unchecked gray‑market activity and regulatory gaps.