NASW Virginia Endorses Rep. Abigail Spanberger for Governor

Representing thousands of social workers across the state, NASW Virginia Chapter has endorsed Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) as the next governor.

“Rep. Spanberger (D-VA) has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to supporting behavioral and mental healthcare and its practitioners, as well as the social and racial justice issues that social workers hold dear,” said NASWVA Executive Director Debra Riggs. “Nationally recognized for her bipartisan collaborations and negotiating skills, she is able to get things done despite the currently divisive political realities.”   

Among Spanberger’s many bipartisan legislative achievements have been successful legislation and increased funding to prevent fentanyl overdoses, lower prescription drug costs, strengthen workforce training programs, protect reproductive and other human rights, and support veterans and their mental health.

“Our Commonwealth is at another crossroads,” said Spanberger when she launched her campaign. “Do we continue moving backward with attacks on our rights, our kids’ education, and our communities’ sense of security — or do we move forward on a path of progress?”

A Purdue and University of Virginia graduate, Spanberger has an extensive law enforcement background, fighting drug trafficking, fraud, and terrorist activities through her undercover work for the Central Intelligence Agency and another federal agency. 

Spanberger moved to the private sector in 2014 when she returned to her home state of Virginia, then transitioned into public service again after her 2018 election as the first Democrat representing the 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1968. She has extensive endorsements from a range of associations and elected leaders.